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December 28, 2025
December 27, 2025
December 27, 2025
The Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) has disrupted what authorities believe to be a major gold-smuggling and money-laundering operation in Bartica, Region Seven, seizing more than $130 million in cash and gold during a coordinated raid on Tuesday, 9 December 2025.
The intelligence-driven operation, conducted at multiple locations, resulted in the seizure of over $32 million in cash and more than $100 million in unprocessed gold. Investigators say the haul is linked to an attempted purchase of undeclared gold intended for illicit export.
According to law-enforcement officials, the group had been under long-term surveillance by both local and international partners. Investigators believe the suspects are connected to a wider network of illegal gold traders and may have ties to the Mohameds, who are suspected of financing gold purchases and facilitating smuggling operations.
SOCU confirmed the arrest of three men—Eon Ricardo Ferrier, also known as “Blacks”, Munesh Chatterpaul, and Latchman Malloo—all of whom are being questioned in relation to gold smuggling, money laundering, and other organised-crime activities.
Authorities say the operation forms part of the Government of Guyana’s broader strategy to dismantle criminal organisations that profit from illegal mining, undeclared gold trading, and financial crimes. Gold smuggling has long posed a threat to Guyana’s economy, depriving the state of revenue and undermining the integrity of the natural-resources sector.
In a statement, the Government reaffirmed its commitment to aggressively pursuing individuals and networks involved in illicit gold activities. SOCU also emphasised that it will continue to strengthen surveillance, intelligence gathering, and enforcement measures to ensure offenders are brought before the courts.
The investigation remains active, with further arrests and charges expected as authorities widen their probe into the multimillion-dollar smuggling ring.
