Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has publicly verified that a high-ranking executive from the West Indies Oil Company (WIOC) underwent questioning by United States authorities during a recent visit to the US. The disclosure came after Browne reviewed a report from the media outlet Real News Antigua and conducted subsequent direct inquiries with the official involved.
During an appearance on Pointe FM’s ‘Browne and Browne Show’ this past Saturday, the Prime Minister recounted how he initiated contact with WIOC Chief Executive Officer Gregory Georges upon learning of the incident through press reports. According to Browne’s account, Georges acknowledged being temporarily detained by US officials, who also confiscated his electronic devices for examination before returning them.
Prime Minister Browne contextualized the interrogation within the framework of ongoing international scrutiny, specifically highlighting Venezuela’s longstanding 25 percent stake in WIOC. He emphasized that this shareholding arrangement predated current US sanctions against Venezuela and asserted that WIOC has maintained full compliance with all international regulations since their implementation. “There has been absolutely no violation whatsoever,” Browne stated unequivocally.
The Prime Minister explained his motivation for addressing the matter publicly stemmed from a desire to provide accurate information verified through direct channels. His comments appear designed to clarify circumstances surrounding increased international attention focused on Antigua and Barbuda’s state-affiliated corporations, particularly those with historical ties to nations under US sanctions. No indications were given that any disciplinary measures would be taken against the WIOC official involved.