Customs Officers attached to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport today seized a large quantity of gold from three (3) passengers who were preparing to board a New York bound flight. Two of the passengers are US citizens, while the third is a Guyanese.
Their names have not been released, as the probe is ongoing.
In a release today, the GRA said the operation, which was support by officers of the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR), and the Customs Anti Narcotic Unit (CANU), led to the discovery of approximately 240 ounces of pure gold disguised as silver plated jewellery, that was being transported out of the country without the necessary permits and declaration to Customs Officials.
The seized gold has an estimated street value of over US$560,000.
The GRA said the outgoing passengers have been arrested and taken into police custody.
Investigators are trying ascertain whether the passengers are part of a ring that is reportedly smuggling gold out Guyana, the Revenue Authority noted.
Charges are also likely to be made under the Customs and Anti-Money Laundering Acts, with the relevant Authorities in Guyana and the US being informed of the results of the investigations.
The GRA said it continues to note the alarming trend in the efforts to smuggle items including gold, monetary instruments, arms, and narcotics through ports in Guyana. The revenue agency is cautioning against any smuggling.
Insight: Heightened Smuggling Concerns
The recent seizure of a large quantity of gold at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport highlights the ongoing issue of smuggling in Guyana. The collaboration between Customs Officers, the Ministry of Natural Resources, and the Customs Anti Narcotic Unit underscores the seriousness with which authorities are addressing these illegal activities.
