GEORGETOWN, Guyana – Authorities in Guyana have successfully thwarted a sophisticated gold smuggling operation, leading to the arrest of two Brazilian nationals and the seizure of a significant quantity of gold along with over GUY$26 million in cash.
The Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) of the Guyana Police Force executed the operation, preventing the illicit movement of gold across the country’s borders. The arrested individuals have been identified as 42-year-old salesman Albina Filho Alves Vieira and 39-year-old clothing vendor Erizangela Regia De Olivera. Both suspects are currently in custody, assisting with the ongoing investigation.
Deputy Commissioner Fazil Karimbaksh, head of SOCU, emphasized that this successful interception reinforces the government’s firm stance against transnational crimes, particularly those threatening Guyana’s natural resources.
“This operation is a testament to our commitment to disrupting illegal networks and ensuring that Guyana’s wealth is protected from unlawful exploitation,” Karimbaksh stated.
Law enforcement agencies continue to crack down on gold smuggling, a persistent issue in the region. This latest bust follows a similar operation in July last year when authorities arrested three Chinese nationals at the Ramada Princess Hotel in connection with another gold smuggling ring.
Authorities have reiterated their warning to individuals involved in such illicit activities, affirming that stringent enforcement measures will remain in place to safeguard the nation’s resources.
