Officers of the Guyana Revenue Authority’s Law Enforcement and Investigation Division (LEID) came under attack early Thursday morning during an anti-smuggling operation along the Berbice Coast.
According to a statement from the GRA, the incident occurred around 04:00 hrs on Thursday, November 13, 2025, in the vicinity of Number 61 Village, Berbice.
The GRA said its Customs Enforcement Officers had intercepted a large wooden motor vessel laden with a substantial quantity of uncustomed goods, including alcoholic beverages.
The individuals on board the vessel were detained, and the boat was being escorted to a designated facility near Number 43 Village for processing when the situation escalated.
En route, the officers were reportedly ambushed by a group of men who forcibly took back control of the vessel and the seized goods.
The Revenue Authority said swift coordination with other law enforcement bodies, including ranks of the Guyana Police Force and the Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU), led to the arrest of four suspects believed to be involved in the attack. They are expected to face prosecution to the fullest extent of the law.
Efforts are ongoing to locate the stolen vessel and recover its illicit cargo.
Reiterating its “zero tolerance” stance on smuggling, the GRA reminded the public that anyone who attempts to import or export goods with the intent to defraud the State of taxes and duties commits an offence and is liable to penalties and/or imprisonment under Section 218 of the Customs Act, Chapter 82:01.
The Authority is also appealing to members of the public to report any suspected smuggling or unlawful activities. Reports can be made by calling 227-6060 on the designated extensions.
The GRA assured that all information will be treated with strict confidentiality and that informants may be eligible for rewards in keeping with the provisions of the Customs Act.
