Brazilians arrested; GY$26 million, gold seized- SOCU

Last Updated on Thursday, 6 March 2025, 21:24 by Writer

In a major intelligence-led joint operation conducted Wednesday afternoon in Lethem, Region 9, Officers of the Guyana Police Force’s Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) successfully intercepted a gold smuggling attempt.

Acting on credible intelligence, SOCU said its officers detained two Brazilian nationals and seized a large quantity of gold and over GYD$26 million in cash.

Arrested are a salesman, Albina Filho Alves Vieira, 42, of 55 Boa Vista Brazil, and a clothes vendor, Erizangela Regia De Olivera, 39, of Lot 3 Boa Vista Brazil.

The two are currently assisting with investigations.

According to Head of SOCU Deputy Commissioner Fazil Karimbaksh, SOCU officers were able to disrupt the smuggling operation before the gold could be moved across the border, underscoring the government’s unwavering commitment to tackling transnational crimes and protecting the nation’s valuable resources.

“The operation also serves as a warning to individuals and groups engaged in such illicit activities that law enforcement agencies remain vigilant and proactive in their enforcement efforts.

This latest crackdown follows a similar enforcement action in July last year at the Ramada Princess Hotel when officials responded to intelligence on gold smuggling resulting in the arrest of three Chinese nationals,” SOCU said.

In that incident, two searches resulted in the discovery of over GY$50 million in cash, money-counting machines and an illegal firearm.

The Government of Guyana, according to police, remains resolute in its mission to combat gold smuggling and dismantle networks involved in these illegal activities. Officials continue to monitor and enforce strict measures to hold offenders accountable and prevent further economic losses to the country.

Investigations are continuing with a view to prosecution.