Returning woman held over undeclared US currency released on self-bail

The South Ruimveldt woman, who police say was arrested after failing to declare a large amount of cash when she arrived at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport last Thursday, has been released on self-bail but is due to face further questioning tomorrow.

This is according to police public relations and press officer Jairam Ramlakhan, who also said that statements have already been taken in the matter.

Police had said in a press release on Friday that the 36-year-old South Ruimveldt, Georgetown, resident was detained by ranks of the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) after being found in possession of US$44,688 (more than $9 million). The woman, the release said, failed to declare the money on arrival at the airport aboard a flight from St Lucia.

Stabroek News was told that the woman identified herself as a businesswoman on her declaration form. SOCU is conducting a money-laundering probe. Persons at ports of entry are bound to declare any cash or jewellery in their possession that is valued US$10,000 or more.