Over $26M seized as SOCU disrupts major gold smuggling operations; 2 arrested

In a major intelligence-led joint operation conducted yesterday afternoon (Wednesday March 5, 2025) in Lethem, Region 9, Officers of the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) successfully intercepted an illegal gold smuggling attempt.

Acting on credible intelligence, SOCU officers detained two Brazilian nationals and seized a large quantity of gold and over $26 million (Guyana dollars) in cash.

Arrested are Albina Filho Alves Vieira, male of Brazilian nationality, a salesman, age 42 years of 55 Boa Vista Brazil, and Erizangela Regia De Olivera, female, of Brazilian nationality, age 39 years, a clothes vendor 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 illegal gold smuggling resulting in the arrest of three Chinese nationals.

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

The Government of Guyana remains resolute in its mission to combat illicit 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 of prosecution.