Vessels seized, several persons arrested as smuggled alcohol is intercepted

Eight persons accused of smuggling foreign alcoholic beverages and cigarettes into the country were arrested on Wednesday following a law enforcement operation in Region Five.

The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Guyana Defence Force Coast Guard carried out an operation at Abary foreshore, Region Five and arrested three persons after the unlicensed motor vessel they were operating was found with a large quantity of foreign liquor and other uncustomed items.

According to a statement from GRA, the three persons reportedly tried to evade the authorities, however, they were pursued and apprehended. The items were seized.

Meanwhile, another operation was carried out by GRA and the Guyana Police Force at Number 43 Village koker, Corentyne, Berbice where another motor vessel and a minibus were seized. The two vehicles were laden with a large quantity of foreign alcoholic beverages, Cigarettes and other uncustomed items.

Five persons were arrested in relation to the smuggled items found with investigations still ongoing.

The GRA said in the statement that it maintains a zero-tolerance approach against smuggling and other illegal activities and encourages persons involved in such activities to “cease and desist and bring themselves into compliance with the nation’s Tax, Trade and Border laws.”