GEORGETOWN, Guyana (CMC) – Officers of the Guyana Police Force’s Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) successfully intercepted an illegal gold smuggling attempt involving Brazilians.

According to the SOCU, its officers detained two Brazilians and seized a large quantity of gold and over GUY$26 million (One Guyana dollar=US$0.004 cents)  in cash.

Arrested are 42-year-old salesman Albina Filho Alves Vieira and 39-year-old clothes vendor Erizangela Regia De Olivera.

The two are currently assisting with SOCU investigations.

According to the head of SOCU deputy commissioner Fazil Karimbaksh, the officers were able to disrupt the smuggling operation before the gold could be moved across the border, underscoring the government’s unwavering commitment to tackling transnational crimes and protecting the nation’s valuable resources.

“The operation also serves as a warning to individuals and groups engaged in such illicit activities that law enforcement agencies remain vigilant and proactive in their enforcement efforts,” SOCU said.

This latest crackdown follows a similar enforcement action in July last year at the Ramada Princess Hotel when officials responded to intelligence on illegal gold smuggling resulting in the arrest of three Chinese nationals.