The United States has announced sanctions against three individuals in Guyana, including a government official, on charges of corruption, according to the State Department.
In a statement released Tuesday, the State Department identified Guyanese official Mae Thomas, along with businessman Nazar Mohamed and his son Azruddin Mohamed, as well as their company, Mohamed’s Enterprise. Local media in Guyana reports that all three have previously denied any involvement in illegal activities.
The State Department accuses Mohamed’s Enterprise of defrauding the Guyanese government by underreporting gold imports and exports, resulting in over $50 million in unpaid duty taxes.
Thomas, who previously served as the permanent secretary to Guyana’s minister of home affairs and is currently the permanent secretary to the Ministry of Labor, is alleged to have abused her position to assist Mohamed’s Enterprise and Azruddin Mohamed in exchange for cash and valuable gifts.
Gold is a significant export for Guyana, with the country’s gold being sold and traded internationally, including in the U.S., Canada, United Arab Emirates, and the European Union.
“Today’s action highlights our dedication to holding accountable those who exploit Guyana’s underdeveloped gold sector for personal gain,” said Brian Nelson, U.S. under secretary of the Treasury for terrorism and financial intelligence.
The sanctions restrict Americans from engaging in transactions with the designated individuals and companies and freeze any assets or property they hold within U.S. jurisdiction.
