Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues, has issued a formal statement addressing recent allegations made by Azruddin Mohamed, who is facing extradition on criminal charges. In her statement, Rodrigues asserted that Mohamed is attempting to discredit her reputation to deflect attention from his own legal troubles.
Rodrigues described Mohamed’s assertions as a “twisting of public information” to fit a misleading narrative. She emphasized that she has publicly declared all her assets, both locally and abroad, to the Integrity Commission and can account for them thoroughly.
As a Politically Exposed Person (PEP), Rodrigues explained that stringent regulations require her to provide proof of funds for any financial transactions undertaken. “I am unable to deposit funds or conduct any transactions without providing necessary documentary proof of how those funds were obtained,” she noted. Rodrigues firmly rejected Mohamed’s claims that her assets are derived from illegal activities, labeling them as “libelous and simply false.”
Addressing specific allegations made by Mohamed in a recent video, Rodrigues clarified several points:
Properties in Florida: Rodrigues stated that alleged properties are inaccurately attributed to her. The first address, 3037 SW 179th Ave., is the home of a realtor who allowed her to use it as a mailing address. Another address, 3550 SW 124th Ave., belongs to Guyana’s Honorary Consul to Florida. The third, 8601 NW 46th Ct., is owned by a company in which she has shares.
Property Purchase Details: Responding to accusations of purchasing a property outright, Rodrigues clarified that the property referenced was bought with a mortgage from AD Mortgage in the U.S., and evidence supporting this, including tax statements, has been provided.
Income Clarifications: Rodrigues addressed Mohamed’s claims that her wealth solely derives from her salary, stating that this comparison ignores her rental income and earnings from family businesses.
Transparency on Acquisitions: To further clarify the source of funds for her properties in Peter’s Hall, Rodrigues made public the Certificates of Title, showcasing that she obtained mortgages upon purchasing the lots.
Herstelling Property: Regarding her residence at Lot 946 Herstelling, Rodrigues presented the Certificate of Title to prove rightful ownership dating back to 2016, prior to her entering government.
Gas Station Ownership: In response to claims regarding the ownership of a gas station at Camp and New Market Streets, Rodrigues reiterated that the station has been owned by Shell Antilles and Guianas Limited since 1962 and clarified that while her partner operates the establishment, they do not own the assets.
Rodrigues concluded her statement by accusing Mohamed of perpetuating lies to sow confusion and divert attention from his own alleged criminal activity. She reiterated her commitment to transparency and accountability, contrasting her documented sources of income with the serious international allegations against Mohamed involving gold smuggling and drug trafficking.
“While Azruddin Mohamed has misled the public about his business dealings, I am prepared to produce evidence to clear my name,” she affirmed.
