Police Force to appeal bail granted to businessman in cybercrime terrorism case

The Guyana Police Force has announced its intention to appeal a decision by the Mahaicony Magistrate’s Court to grant bail to businessman Dennis Persaud, who has been charged under the Cyber Crime Act for allegedly inciting acts of terrorism.

Persaud, 37, residing at Lot 5, West Strathavon, Cane Grove, East Coast Demerara, was arrested on Tuesday, 29 April 2025, by ranks of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) at Police Headquarters. He was formally charged on Friday, 2 May 2025, with the offence of using a computer system to incite persons to commit a terrorist act—specifically, encouraging individuals to burn speed cameras—in violation of Section 18(1)(d)(ii) of the Cyber Crime Act No. 16 of 2018.

He appeared before Magistrate Allan Wilson the same day. The charge was read to him, and he was not required to enter a plea. Although the police prosecutor strongly objected to the granting of bail, the court released Persaud on $150,000 bail.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Guyana Police Force described the court’s decision as “legally untenable” and not reflective of the seriousness of the charge, which involves the use of digital platforms to incite terrorism—a matter with far-reaching implications for public safety and national infrastructure.

“The Force is of the firm view that the decision does not align with the gravity of the offence and runs counter to recent rulings by other Magistrates in similar cybercrime cases,” the statement read.

Officials further indicated that steps are already underway to challenge the bail decision, citing the need to preserve public confidence in the justice system and ensure accountability in matters relating to national security and cyberterrorism.
The matter has been adjourned until Tuesday, 3 June 2025, for report and disclosure of statements.