News Americas, New York, NY, 16 October 2024: The Special Organized Crime Unit, (SOCU), of the Guyana Police Force (GPF), is recommending that “dozens” of charges be laid against the embattled Assistant Commissioner of Police, Calvin Brutus, following an extensive investigation into alleged irregularities financial.
According to a statement from the GPF on Wednesday, SOCU had previously launched an investigation into Brutus’ activities. At that time, based on the advice of the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), no criminal charges were recommended. However, a new investigation was launched following critical information received by the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU).
Brutus, who went on leave in July to allow the investigation to continue, remained silent on allegations that he deposited GUY$16.5 million (US$0.004 to the Guyanese dollar) into his Police Credit Union account on December 15, 2023. The funds were reportedly returned to him the next day, with the source claiming they were contributions related to a wedding.
The FIU, established under the Anti-Money Laundering Act, conducted a wider investigation into the case, receiving and analyzing suspicious transaction reports. The investigation was completed on October 1 and all relevant files have been submitted to the DPSH for review and further actions.
“SOCU recommended dozens of charges and now awaits legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions,” the GPF said. Police also criticized a recent report from Stabroek News as “misleading”, dismissing claims that SOCU had found no evidence of criminal activity.
