No political motivation behind US’ charges against Mohameds- Nandlall

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, has dismissed claims that the charges against Guyanese businessmen Azruddin Mohamed and his father Nazar “Shell” Mohamed by the United States are politically motivated. Speaking on his social media program, “Issues In The News,” Nandlall emphasized that the 11-count indictment spans multiple administrations in both Guyana and the US, indicating a long-standing investigation rather than a politically driven action. The charges, unsealed on Monday, relate to alleged fraud and money laundering involving gold exports and the importation of a Lamborghini luxury car, which reportedly defrauded the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) of taxes. Nandlall refuted the notion that the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPPC) could influence the US Department of Justice, calling such claims “outrageous.” He also highlighted that the Mohameds had previously enjoyed close ties with the PPPC, questioning the logic behind accusations of political persecution. Azruddin Mohamed, whose political party, We Invest in Nationhood (WIN), secured 16 parliamentary seats in the recent elections, suggested that the charges were personal, viewing himself as a political threat to the PPPC. However, Nandlall clarified that holding parliamentary or constitutional office does not grant immunity from criminal prosecution. If convicted, the Mohameds face severe penalties, including up to 20 years imprisonment per count, substantial fines, and asset forfeiture. The indictment also accuses the Mohameds of bribing Guyanese officials to evade taxes and royalties on gold shipments. The case underscores the complexities of international legal cooperation and the challenges of addressing transnational financial crimes.