Anand Chotkan, the 48-year-old Director of Livestock at Suriname’s Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries (LVV), has been arrested on allegations of embezzlement and fraud against the state. The arrest follows an investigation into the disappearance of approximately 100 sheep and cattle, a excavator, a tractor, and an ATV, which were reported missing on October 18. Minister Mike Noersalim of LVV expressed deep concern, stating that such fraudulent activities tarnish the department’s reputation, especially when senior officials are involved.
Preliminary findings suggest that Chotkan had been selling livestock, including breeding bulls, cows, and calves, from the State Farm without authorization since February 2022. The proceeds from these sales were never remitted to the state. Chotkan initially claimed that the money was stored in a drum that had been lost. However, during a search of his home, authorities discovered a drum containing a substantial amount of cash in US dollars and euros.
Further suspicions arose when it was revealed that Chotkan allegedly attempted to defraud the state of over SRD 86 million. He is accused of forging his signature on a performance statement for the delivery of cattle from Brazil, despite the animals never being supplied. The Ministry of Finance was on the verge of transferring the funds to the supplier, but the Central Land Accounting Service (CLAD) intervened, preventing the transaction.
Minister Noersalim emphasized the importance of rooting out corruption within the ministry to ensure the accelerated development of the agricultural sector. He acknowledged the severity of Chotkan’s arrest, given his role in overseeing the State Farm, which is reportedly in dire straits. However, Noersalim remains optimistic, highlighting the training of new personnel and the willingness of retirees to contribute to the ministry’s efforts.
“We are committed to the accelerated development of the agricultural sector and will continue to refine our policies,” Noersalim concluded, reaffirming his determination to combat corruption and restore integrity to the ministry.