Six persons were placed on $1M station bail each after being arrested for smuggling contraband from Suriname into Guyana.
This is according to Region Six Commander Shivpersaud Bachus, who noted that investigations are progressing and the suspects are expected to be placed before the court shortly.
The incident occurred on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at approximately 04:00 hours, when officers from the Law Enforcement and Investigation Division (LEID) of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) came under attack by alleged smugglers during an intelligence-driven enforcement operation in the vicinity of No. 61 Village, Berbice.
During the operation, Customs Enforcement Officers intercepted a large wooden motor vessel carrying a significant quantity of uncustomed goods, including alcoholic beverages. The vessel, along with the persons onboard, was detained.
However, while the vessel and its contents were being escorted to a designated facility in the vicinity of No. 43 Village, Berbice, the officers were ambushed by a group of men who forcefully retrieved the vessel and seized items.
Through swift collaboration with other sister agencies, including ranks of the Guyana Police Force and the Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit, six of the perpetrators were subsequently arrested and will face prosecution to the full extent of the law. Efforts are ongoing to locate the vessel and its contents.
The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) reminds the public of its zero-tolerance approach to smuggling. Anyone who attempts to import or export goods with the intent to defraud the Revenue Authority of duties is guilty of an offence and liable to penalties and/or imprisonment, in keeping with Section 218 of the Customs Act, Chapter 82:01.
