The Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) has disrupted another suspected large-scale gold smuggling and money laundering operation in Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), resulting in the arrest of three men and the seizure of more than $130 million in cash and gold. SOCU on Tuesday evening said that an intelligence-led joint operation was executed on Tuesday, at several locations across the mining town. SOCU reported that more than $32 million and over $100 million worth of gold were seized. The items were allegedly connected to an attempted purchase of undeclared gold. SOCU said the suspects had been under surveillance for an extended period by local and international law enforcement partners. Investigators believe the men have links to illicit gold trading networks and may be connected to individuals, who are suspected of financing and purchasing gold on their behalf. During the operation, SOCU arrested Eon Ricardo Ferrier, also known as “Blacks,” Munesh Chatterpaul and Latchman Malloo. The agency stated that the three are currently cooperating with ongoing investigations into gold smuggling and money laundering activities.

SOCU, along with the Government of Guyana, reiterated its commitment to investigating and prosecuting those involved in gold smuggling and money laundering, while protecting the integrity of the country’s natural resources sector.
The suspects remain in custody as further investigations are continuing pending charges.