OPR completes probe into alleged $4M theft by police ranks; file to be sent to DPP for advice

The Guyana Police Force’s Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) has wrapped up its investigation into allegations that an Inspector and three other ranks stole millions of dollars from a Chinese businessman during a stop-and-search exercise in Georgetown.

The four ranks, who were initially placed under close arrest on August 14, 2025, are now under open arrest but remain confined to the Tactical Services Unit pending further action. The case file is expected to be submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) on Wednesday, August 20, for legal advice.

According to reports, the incident occurred last Tuesday when the businessman was leaving a Church Street casino after a major win. It is alleged that members of the anti-terrorism patrol stopped him, and during a search of his vehicle, the Inspector discovered more than $5 million in cash. The officers allegedly confiscated $4 million before driving away.

The businessman reportedly claimed he even offered the officers $1.5 million to let him go, but the demand was refused. He later filed a formal police complaint, which triggered the internal probe.

Investigators are said to have reviewed CCTV footage of the incident and reportedly obtained a confession statement from one of the ranks.

The police have not released the names of the implicated officers, but authorities have confirmed that the matter is being treated with urgency as the force moves to maintain public confidence.