The United Kingdom has significantly increased its financial commitment to Guyana, raising the available financing through its Export Finance (UKEF) agency from £2.1 billion to £3 billion. This move, announced on October 8, 2025, underscores the UK’s confidence in Guyana’s economic trajectory and fiscal sustainability, while also deepening the bilateral relationship between the two nations. President Irfaan Ali highlighted that the funds will be channeled into transformative infrastructure projects, including the extension of the Linden to Lethem all-weather road, the development of a deep-water port in Berbice, and modernization initiatives in the health and energy sectors. The Berbice port, a public-private venture, is expected to serve as a strategic gateway for northern Brazil, enhancing regional trade and connectivity. Additionally, plans for a second gas-to-energy project are underway, with the aim of integrating these developments into a new industrial hub. The announcement was made during a meeting between President Ali, a UKEF delegation, and the UK’s Deputy Trade Commissioner for Latin America and the Caribbean. The British High Commission emphasized that this support aligns with Guyana’s accelerated infrastructural development and its emergence as a key investment destination. Private sector leaders, including Gerry Gouveia Jr., Chairman of the Private Sector Commission, welcomed the increased financing, noting its potential to foster local economic diversification, capacity building, and international partnerships. Dr. Clinton Urling, Secretary of the Private Sector Commission, also highlighted the opportunities for collaboration between Guyanese and UK firms, emphasizing the importance of financing for private sector growth and expansion. The Guyanese delegation included key ministers, reflecting the government’s commitment to leveraging this financial boost for sustainable development and shared prosperity.
标签： Guyana
圭亚那
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GPL fast-track upgrade with Dom Rep’s InterEnergy two-year contract
In a landmark move to modernize its energy infrastructure, Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) has entered into a two-year contract with the Dominican Republic’s InterEnergy Group. The $15.8 million agreement, signed on October 8, 2025, aims to accelerate the transformation of Guyana’s electricity grid, enhance reliability, and advance the country’s transition to a smart grid system. The contract was awarded through a sole-sourced formula, bypassing the initially selected Canadian firm Method4, which later withdrew from the bid. The signing ceremony, attended by key stakeholders including GPL’s Executive Management Head Kesh Nandlall and InterEnergy Chairman Rolando González Bunster, marked a significant step in strengthening regional ties. Under the agreement, InterEnergy will provide supervisory, engineering, and project management consultancy services, ensuring technical compliance, timely execution, and the integration of smart technologies. The partnership also includes technical advisory services for the operation and maintenance of generation assets, audits, and recommendations for improved reliability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Additionally, InterEnergy will lead smart grid integration, conduct technical gap analyses, and develop cost-effective expansion plans. The Guyana government has assured that no GPL employees will lose their jobs as a result of this collaboration. Public Utilities Minister Deodat Indar emphasized the importance of capacity building within GPL, while GPL Chairman Maurice Gajadhar hailed the partnership as a historic milestone in regional cooperation. InterEnergy’s Chairman highlighted the symbolic and strategic value of the agreement, expressing confidence in its potential to drive Guyana’s energy sector forward. The collaboration is part of a broader $400 million project to install a new transmission and distribution system, set for completion by mid-2026.
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Guns, phones, boat found but no arrest during large-scale marijuana eradication in Upper Berbice River
In a significant operation spanning from October 3 to 6, 2025, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) conducted a large-scale marijuana eradication exercise in the Upper Berbice River. Despite the seizure of two firearms, ammunition, two cellular phones, and a small wooden boat, no arrests were made. The operation targeted three marijuana cultivation sites, including a six-acre farm in the Ebini Savannahs, identified using a drone. Law enforcement destroyed four nursery beds containing approximately 5,000 cannabis seedlings, 64 pounds of dried cannabis, and three acres of mature marijuana plants. Notably, 30 pounds of cannabis were discovered in an abandoned church. The total street value of the confiscated marijuana was estimated at over GY$5 million. Additional items seized included a 12-gauge double-barrel shotgun, a chainsaw, and a cellular phone. At Wiruni, police searched two wooden houses, confiscating a .32 pistol, shotgun cartridges, two cellular phones, and two outboard engines. A makeshift camp, 90 pounds of cannabis, and 3,000 seedlings were also destroyed. All confiscated items were taken to the Kwakwani Police Station.
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Applications for visas, extensions of stay now possible Online- Home Affairs Ministry
The Ministry of Home Affairs in Guyana has unveiled its Digitised Immigration Support Services (ISS) platform, marking a significant leap in the modernization of public administration. As of Tuesday, October 7, 2025, individuals can now apply for various types of visas and extensions of stay online, with the option to pay through the ministry or Mobile Money Guyana (MMG). This initiative aims to streamline immigration processes, reduce wait times, and alleviate congestion at service counters, offering citizens the convenience of applying from the comfort of their homes or offices. Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond emphasized that the new system enhances accessibility to immigration services, ensuring faster processing and a more citizen-centric approach. While the online platform is now operational, the government has assured that walk-in applicants will continue to be accommodated, with dedicated systems and staff available to assist them. The platform, accessible via https://eservices.iss.gov.gy, supports applications for employment, business, student, and visitor visas, as well as extensions. Applicants can register online, upload necessary documents, and complete their applications seamlessly. Developed in collaboration with the National Data Management Authority (NDMA), the ISS eServices platform represents a milestone in Guyana’s digital transformation journey. Minister Walrond highlighted that the platform improves workflow efficiency, transparency, and user experience, aligning with the government’s broader commitment to building smarter, technology-driven public services. The launch underscores the government’s dedication to delivering efficient, transparent, and citizen-friendly services, in line with Guyana’s digital transformation goals.
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Venezuelans kill countryman in Region 7 gold mining area- police
In a tragic incident in the Quartz Stone Backdam area of the Cuyuni River in Region 7, a Venezuelan gold miner was brutally killed by a group of his compatriots. The victim, identified as 35-year-old Yosber Alberto Sojo, was found dead on a main access trail on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, following a report to the police. Preliminary investigations indicate that the incident occurred on Monday, October 6, when Sojo was confronted by approximately 12 Venezuelan men who accused him of theft and subsequently assaulted him. The Guyanese police have launched a manhunt for the suspects, all of whom are reportedly Venezuelan nationals. Sojo’s body has been transported to Bartica for a post-mortem examination, though police have not disclosed whether there were visible signs of violence on the body. This incident highlights the volatile and often dangerous conditions in the gold mining regions, where disputes can escalate into fatal confrontations.
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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.
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Policeman charged with child rape
A 19-year-old police officer from Supenaam, Essequibo Coast, Guyana, has been formally charged with the rape of a 14-year-old girl. The accused, Erwin Gentle, was arrested on October 6, 2025, by an officer from the Gender-Based Violence Unit of the Guyana Police Force. The charge, which pertains to the rape of a child under the age of 16, was presented at the Friendship Magistrates’ Court before Magistrate Tameika Clarke. Gentle was not required to enter a plea and has been remanded to prison until his next court appearance on October 27, 2025. This case has drawn significant attention due to the involvement of a law enforcement officer in such a grave offense, raising concerns about accountability and the protection of minors within the community.
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OPINION: When friendships rupture, when cooperation becomes collusion
In a dramatic turn of events on the first Monday of October 2025, the spotlight fell on Nazar Mohamed and his son Azruddin Mohamed, who were indicted on 11 serious charges including gold smuggling, tax evasion, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. This father-son duo is now accused of running an unprecedented criminal enterprise in Guyana, raising questions about their connections with high-ranking officials and the political elite. The charges, spanning from 2017 to 2024, implicate two successive governments, with leaders at various levels reportedly cultivating close ties with the Mohameds. Their alleged criminal activities were seemingly overlooked for years, with their names evoking both fear and reverence in equal measure. The author reflects on the surreal nature of being entangled in this web of corruption and questions the integrity of the friendships and protections that once shielded the Mohameds. The article also delves into the political ramifications of their indictment, particularly in light of Azruddin Mohamed’s foray into politics and his bold stance against the Exxon oil contract. The author raises critical questions about the timing of the charges and the sudden cooperation between the Guyanese and U.S. governments, suggesting that collusion may have replaced cooperation. The piece concludes with a call for Guyanese citizens to reflect on these developments and consider the broader implications for their nation’s future.
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Azruddin Mohamed to enter Parliament as Opposition Leader, despite US Grand Jury indictment for financial crimes
Azruddin Mohamed, leader of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) political party, has declared his intention to assume the role of Opposition Leader in Guyana’s Parliament despite facing a US Grand Jury indictment for financial crimes. The indictment, unsealed on Monday, accuses Mohamed and his father, Nazar “Shell” Mohamed, of fraud and money laundering linked to gold smuggling and the purchase of a luxury car. Mohamed, whose party holds 16 seats in Parliament, dismissed the allegations as politically motivated and vowed to defend himself vigorously. He emphasized that the charges have no bearing on his parliamentary duties, stating, ‘I will go in there and represent the people. I won’t shy away from that.’ The US indictment alleges that the Mohameds reused official seals to evade taxes on gold shipments and paid bribes to Guyanese customs officials. If convicted, they face up to 20 years in prison, fines, and asset forfeiture. Mohamed denied ownership of the implicated business, Mohamed’s Enterprise, and claimed he had no involvement in gold exports. He also criticized the ruling People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPPC) for allegedly orchestrating the legal actions against him, citing his growing political influence as a threat. The PPPC and the Guyanese government have denied any involvement in the US legal proceedings. Mohamed’s legal battles include additional charges for tax evasion and false declarations related to a Lamborghini purchase. Despite these challenges, he remains resolute in his political ambitions, framing the indictment as a personal attack by his political adversaries.
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US Grand Jury indicts Azruddin Mohamed, Nazar “Shell” Mohamed for wire fraud, money laundering on gold exports, L:amborghini
A United States Grand Jury has formally charged Guyanese businessmen Azruddin Mohamed and his father, Nazar “Shell” Mohamed, with wire fraud, mail fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. The charges stem from their alleged involvement in tax evasion related to gold exports and the importation of a Lamborghini luxury vehicle. The indictment, unsealed on October 6, 2025, reveals that the Mohameds face severe penalties, including up to 20 years imprisonment per count, supervised release, and substantial fines. The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has already sanctioned the duo, complicating their legal and financial standing. The indictment further alleges that the Mohameds engaged in a sophisticated scheme to defraud the Guyanese government by reusing official seals and falsifying documentation to avoid paying taxes and royalties on gold shipments. Additionally, they are accused of bribing Guyanese customs officials to facilitate these illegal activities. The case also highlights the importation of a Lamborghini, valued at approximately $680,000, for which the Mohameds allegedly falsified invoices to evade over $1 million in taxes. The U.S. is seeking forfeiture of assets linked to the alleged crimes, including $5.3 million in gold bars seized at Miami International Airport in 2024. The Mohameds, who recently gained political prominence in Guyana, now face a legal battle that could derail their careers and businesses.