The Association of Indigenous Village Chiefs in Suriname (VIDS) explained that despite the many letters, requests and talks the authorities still have not shed any light on the investigation into the illegal sand diggings. It is not clear how the damage that was done to the environment will be fixed. On September 3rd the villagers held an emergency meeting after the village chief was told by the district commissioner of Saramacca that a second writ had been received by one of the parties involved, demanding that the ban on the sand diggings be lifted. The village chief and the villagers of Grankreek presented a letter that is supported by the surrounding villages to the DC. In the letter the villagers protest against the sand diggings while demanding transparency, clear answers and respect for its traditional territory.The VIDS emphasized that it supports Grankreek in the fight to protect its traditional territory.”Out territory deserve answers. Our rights deserve protection,” said the VIDS.