Illegal brothel operated by convicted Venezuelan national demolished

See below press release issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs:

The Ministry of Home Affairs wishes to inform the public that on Monday, May 1st, 2023, the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), in collaboration with the Ministerial Taskforce on Trafficking in Persons, launched an operation to demolish two (2) illegal Brothels or Kaymui situated in the Barakatt Backdam and Crusher Landing, Region 7.

These establishments were operated by Ms. Mayelin Josefina Cordova, a Venezuelan national who was recently convicted and sentenced under the Summary Jurisdiction (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:02, in the Bartica Magistrates’ Court on April 26th, 2023, for using a Brothel.

As investigations continue into this case, the Ministry will keep the public informed.

Further, we would like to thank the Guyana Police Force – TIP Unit, Counter Trafficking in Persons  Unit, Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, Office of the Director of Public Prosecution and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) for their continued support in our fight against human trafficking in Guyana.

The Taskforce and its sister agencies will continue its focus on increasing awareness of human trafficking, strengthening enforcement efforts, international cooperation, and enhancing work with all stakeholders ( government, civil society organisations and the private sector ) to prevent human trafficking and thwart the efforts of Traffickers.