In a significant breakthrough, the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) has dismantled another major gold smuggling operation, seizing over $60 million in cash and gold during a raid in Georgetown. Acting on credible intelligence, SOCU officers arrested four individuals, including two Brazilian nationals, one Cuban national, and one Guyanese.
The operation led to the confiscation of gold valued at more than $30 million and over $31 million in cash. Authorities also seized electronic equipment believed to have been used in the smuggling activities. This marks SOCU’s second major success in recent weeks, following a similar crackdown in Lethem on March 5, where two individuals were apprehended.
SOCU officials have described this latest operation as part of an ongoing effort to curb the illegal gold trade, which has long been a challenge for Guyana’s economy and law enforcement agencies. The smuggling of gold not only deprives the country of valuable revenue but also fuels organized crime networks.
The suspects are currently in custody as investigations continue. Law enforcement officials are working to determine the full extent of the smuggling network and whether additional arrests will be made.
This latest bust underscores SOCU’s commitment to tackling financial crimes and safeguarding Guyana’s natural resources. Authorities have urged citizens to report any suspicious activities as they intensify efforts to combat illegal gold smuggling operations across the country.
