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.
标签： Guyana
圭亚那
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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.
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Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge testimony to Belt and Road Initiative- China’s Ambassador
The newly commissioned Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge, a $260 million infrastructure project, stands as a symbol of the deepening ties between Guyana and China under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Officially opened on Sunday, the bridge was hailed by China’s Ambassador to Guyana, Yang Yang, as not just a feat of engineering but a bridge of friendship and cooperation between the two nations. The ceremony, attended by thousands, marked the completion of a structure designed to connect east and west Demerara, enhancing regional connectivity and economic growth. Ambassador Yang emphasized that the project aligns with the shared aspirations of both countries for development and improved livelihoods, reflecting China’s commitment as a responsible global partner. The bridge, constructed by China Railway Construction Corporation Limited, is engineered to last a century, showcasing advanced technical expertise and adherence to international standards. Public Works Minister Juan Edghill highlighted the project’s compliance with global best practices, including AASHTO, ASTM, and ISO-certified benchmarks. The bridge features a modern, four-lane, cable-stayed design, capable of handling both vehicular and pedestrian traffic with unparalleled safety and efficiency. Its robust foundation, comprising 658 deep-driven piles, ensures structural integrity, while its 50-meter high-span eliminates the need for bridge openings, facilitating uninterrupted traffic flow. The project, which began in December 2022, employed over 1,300 workers at its peak, underscoring its scale and significance. In a tribute to Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, President Irfaan Ali announced the bridge’s naming in his honor, recognizing his contributions to Guyana’s development. The commissioning coincided with the 33rd anniversary of Guyana’s first free and fair elections, adding historical resonance to the event. The bridge’s inauguration marks a milestone in Guyana’s infrastructure development and its strategic partnership with China.
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Venezuelan man chopped during brawl
A violent altercation at a bar in Best Village, West Coast Demerara, Guyana, left a Venezuelan man with severe injuries on the morning of Sunday, October 5, 2025. The victim, identified as Geraldy Angel, was allegedly attacked by a group of fellow Venezuelans during the brawl. According to police reports, the incident escalated around 12:30 a.m. when an argument broke out between a Venezuelan woman, Alianda Martin, and her husband, Osmel Figuera, who were drinking at the bar with family members. The dispute quickly turned physical, with several men joining the fight. One of the assailants, armed with a cutlass, reportedly struck Angel in the left thigh, causing significant injury. Angel was immediately rushed to the West Demerara Regional Hospital, where he received medical treatment and was admitted in stable condition. As of now, no arrests have been made, although several individuals have been questioned by authorities. The investigation is ongoing, with police working to piece together the events leading to the violent encounter.
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7 arrested, guns seized in connection with land mining dispute
In a significant development concerning a land mining dispute in Toroparu, Region 7 (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), authorities have arrested seven individuals and confiscated multiple firearms. The Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) have jointly intervened to de-escalate the situation, deploying a specialized team to monitor the area and prevent further conflict. The arrests stem from two separate incidents on September 23 and 30, involving personnel linked to Alphonso Mining and a group of rangers. The initial altercation, captured on video, reportedly escalated to the alleged use of firearms by Alphonso’s security team. A subsequent incident, also documented on video, highlighted ongoing tensions between the parties. Those arrested include Mitchell Watson, rangers Marvis Hillman and Edson Carter, security agent Leon Wilkinson, security guard Randy Allen, Juleth George of GM Alphonso Mining, and operator William Hill. Authorities are working to restore order and address the underlying issues fueling the dispute.
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8 arrested, guns seized in connection with land mining dispute
In a significant development linked to an ongoing land mining dispute in Toroparu, Region 7 (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), eight individuals have been apprehended, and multiple firearms confiscated, according to the Guyana Police Force (GPF). The arrests stem from two separate incidents on September 23 and 30, 2025, which have intensified tensions in the area. Among those detained are Mitchell Watson, miner Ronaldo Alphonso, rangers Marvis Hillman and Edson Carter, security agent Leon Wilkinson, security guard Randy Allen, Juleth George of GM Alphonso Mining, and operator William Hill. The initial altercation on September 23, captured on video, involved personnel associated with Mr. Alphonso and a group including rangers Hillman and Carter, reportedly escalating to the alleged discharge of firearms by Alphonso’s security team. A subsequent incident on September 30, also documented on video, featured security agent Wilkinson as the primary speaker, indicating unresolved tensions. To address the situation, a joint operational team comprising GPF officers and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) has been deployed to monitor and mitigate further conflict.
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19-year-old on child pornography charges
A 19-year-old man, Jeremiah James from ‘D’ Field, Sophia, Greater Georgetown, has been remanded to prison on multiple charges related to child pornography under the Cyber Crime Act. The charges include possessing child pornography in a computer system, procuring child pornography for himself and another person, using a computer system to commit child luring, and causing a child under 16 years old to watch a sexual act. Additionally, he faces charges of using a computer system to harass, embarrass, coerce, humiliate, and intimidate another person. The penalties for these offenses are severe, ranging from fines of GY$3 million to GY$15 million and imprisonment terms of three to ten years, depending on the conviction type. James pleaded guilty to possessing child pornography and causing a child under 16 to watch a sexual act but denied charges of child luring and procuring child pornography. Senior Magistrate Clive Nurse at the Sparendaam Magistrates’ Court has remanded him to prison until October 16, 2025. The Guyana Police Force arrested James on September 28, though the exact dates of the alleged offenses remain unspecified.