Financial Crime World

GUYANA FRAUD WATCH: Suspicious Transactions on the Rise Amid Pandemic

Fraudulent Transactions Surge in Guyana’s Banking Sector

The Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) has reported a significant increase in fraudulent transactions in Guyana’s banking sector, with many of these reports related to fraud. According to FIU Director, Langevine, the pandemic has provided an opportunity for criminals to flourish.

Sources of Suspicious Transactions

While the number of suspicious transaction reports is consistent with previous years, including 2020, the FIU is seeing a significant proportion coming from money transfer agencies and financial institutions. In fact, over 46% of reports are coming from these sources.

Primary Purpose of FIU

The primary purpose of the FIU is to receive and analyze information on financial crimes and share it with law enforcement. The unit has submitted 14 intelligence reports to the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) to investigate suspected money laundering activities and is working with law enforcement agencies on several cases.

Types of Fraud

The FIU has identified several types of fraud, including:

  • Romance or Package Delivery Scam: Victims are defrauded into transferring funds in exchange for an online romantic relationship.
  • Email Compromise: Companies’ emails become compromised and instructions are sent to banks to wire funds to fake suppliers.

Smurfing

The FIU has also been paying attention to smurfing, which involves using the financial system to launder money. While not technically a crime, Langevine emphasized that it is still a way for criminals to move money.

Collaboration and Cooperation

Despite the persistence of these scams, Langevine commended financial institutions for cooperating and reporting suspicious cases. The FIU has been collaborating with agencies locally and internationally, including:

  • FIUs of Suriname
  • Trinidad and Tobago
  • United States

Encouragement to Citizens

Langevine encouraged citizens to be diligent in reporting scams and assured that the FIU will continue to work to bring perpetrators to justice.