Over $7M seized in Soesdyke raid expected to trigger money-laundering probe

The suspected cocaine that was seized by CANU at Soesdyke on Friday
The suspected cocaine that was seized by CANU at Soesdyke on Friday

The ownership of over $7 million in local and foreign currencies and several vehicles that were all seized during a raid by the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) at Soesdyke, East Bank Demerara on Friday has raised questions and a separate probe is expected to be launched.

CANU agents on Friday arrested three persons, including a brother and sister, following the discovery of over 10 pounds of suspected cocaine during the operation.

The agency, in a statement, said Junior Owen Singh, his sister Nickela Craig-Singh and another individual were taken into custody during the operation, which saw the discovery of five kilogrammes (equivalent to 11.0231 pounds) of suspected cocaine, $7 million in local currency, US$800 and at least four vehicles suspected to be owned by Junior Owen Singh.

A source told Stabroek News that acting on information received, CANU agents conducted a search on a house belonging to Nickela Craig-Singh and the suspected cocaine was found hidden in the roof.

During questioning, she reportedly told the ranks that her brother gave her the substance to keep. She also provided them with his whereabouts.

A subsequent search was conducted at his place of residence, where the large sum of cash and the vehicles were discovered. The man was questioned about where he obtained the cash and vehicles from and was unable to provide any useful information. As a result, he was taken into custody.

While charges are likely to be laid against Craig-Singh, Stabroek News was told that her brother would be the focus of a money laundering probe.