Brazilian brothers charged by SOCU for violating Gold Board Act

Orisvaldo De Oliveira Moura and Sabastiao De Oliveira Moura, Brazilian nationals, have been charged by the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) for violating the Guyana Gold Board Act, Chapter 66:01. The charge alleges “Failure to Keep and Produce a Book to an Officer of the Board or to another person authorized by the Board.”

Orisvaldo De Oliveira Moura appeared before Magistrate Rabindra Nauth Singh at Georgetown Magistrates’ Court #11, where he pleaded not guilty. He was granted $100,000 bail. The case has been transferred to Port Kaituma Magistrates Court for a report on August 15, 2024.

Meanwhile, Sabastiao De Oliveira Moura appeared before Magistrate Faith Mc Gusty at Georgetown Magistrates Court #1. He also pleaded not guilty and was granted $50,000 bail. His case has been adjourned to August 16, 2024.

The Moura brothers operate a registered business with three locations: Georgetown, Eyelash Backdam, and Port Kaituma Water Front, Region One. Reports indicate that all three locations were involved in the purchase of precious stones but failed to maintain the necessary records.

SOCU, in collaboration with the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission, conducted searches at the business premises. The operation uncovered a significant quantity of gold and cash. The defendants were unable to provide the required documentation for their purchases, leading to their arrest and the seizure of the items. Further investigations are ongoing as the case develops.