Guyana imposes ban on scrap metal exports

Guyana has imposed a temporary ban on the export of all scrap metals in an attempt to tackle an upsurge in vandalism of government and private property.



Prime Minister Samuel Hinds says the trade is now illegal until further notice.



Meanwhile, the President of the Scrap Metal Dealers Association, Paul Cole, says members are upset about the decision because it comes at a time when tons of old metal are on wharves awaiting shipment.



Mr. Cole says the government should enforce the Old Metals Act, instead of imposing a ban.