Guyana Finance Scandal Rocks the Nation: “Package Delivery” and “Romance” Scams Threaten Innocent Citizens
Public Advisory Issued by Guyana’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU)
In May 2021, the FIU issued a public advisory highlighting the alarming presence of individuals in Guyana involved in international fraudulent activities, known as “Package Delivery Scams”. The FIU has since confirmed that this phenomenon continues to pose a significant threat to unsuspecting citizens.
Emergence of Scams During COVID-19 Pandemic
The scams emerged around March 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic and have been targeting victims through social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. Scammers befriend their intended victims online, building trust over time before promising them valuable gift items, including designer clothing, jewelry, televisions, cell phones, and electronic devices.
How the Scams Work
The scammers typically request personal contact information from the victim, claiming that a local associate has confirmed the arrival of the package and needs to arrange for its delivery. The unsuspecting victim is then asked to deposit money into a specified bank account or send it through a money transfer agency (MTA), allegedly to cover brokerage fees, customs duties, penalties, and shipping charges.
Warning Signs
However, once the payment is made, the scammers disappear, leaving the victims out of pocket. In some cases, additional payments are requested, often with plausible-sounding excuses.
FIU’s Warning to Citizens
The FIU is urging citizens to be cautious and not fall prey to these scams. Anyone approached via email, social media, or SMS with promises of gifts or financial assistance should exercise extreme caution and:
- Not share personal information
- Not transfer money
- Not deposit funds into unfamiliar accounts
Reporting Fraudulent Activities
If you believe you are a victim of the “Romance” or “Package Delivery Scam”, report it immediately to your local police station. The FIU is working closely with reporting entities (banks and MTAs) and law enforcement authorities to combat these fraudulent activities.
Recent Arrests and Charges
In recent months, law enforcement has arrested and interviewed several individuals involved in these scams, resulting in the filing of over 20 fraud charges. Additional fraud and money laundering charges are being considered.
Commitment to Combating Fraud
The FIU is warning persons involved in perpetrating these crimes that they will be tracked down and held accountable for their actions. The unit is committed to working with local and international law enforcement partners to bring perpetrators to justice and protect Guyana’s citizens from financial harm.