The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) seized a large quantity of gold jewelry from three passengers at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) yesterday. Two of the passengers are U.S. citizens. They were attempting to board an American Airlines flight to New York.
The operation was supported by the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) and the Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU). Officials discovered approximately 240 ounces of nearly pure gold disguised as silver-plated jewelry. The gold, valued at over $560,000, was being smuggled out of the country without the necessary permits and declarations.
The GRA reported that the passengers were arrested and handed over to the Guyana Police Force. Investigations are ongoing to determine if they are part of a smuggling ring. Charges are expected under the Customs and Anti-Money Laundering Acts. Authorities in Guyana and overseas have been informed of the investigation’s results.