The multi-million-dollar luxury car tax evasion case against businessman Azruddin Mohamed continued today in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court. During the proceedings, Sanjeev Datadin, attorney for the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), indicated his intention to summon representatives from both local and foreign banking institutions to testify against Mohamed.
Mohamed, who is currently sanctioned by the US, faces two counts of tax evasion and fraudulent declaration related to a luxury vehicle he imported in late 2020. Datadin explained to Acting Chief Magistrate Faith Mc Gusty that the bankers would need to be summoned to court to provide information, as they are uncomfortable sharing details without a court order.
The prosecution aims to have these banking representatives appear at the start of the trial. However, the defense argues that the court lacks jurisdiction, claiming that the charges should have been filed within six months of the alleged offenses.
Datadin countered the defense’s argument, stating that they are selectively interpreting the Summary Jurisdiction (Offences) Act. He noted that the Customs Act specifies a limitation period of seven years for related matters.
Attorney-at-Law Siand Dhurjon, representing Mohamed, cited Section 6 of the Summary Jurisdiction (Procedure) Act, which states that if no specific time is limited for filing a complaint for a summary conviction offense, the limitation period is six months. He argued that the charges were filed too late and that the Customs Act does not clearly define the time limits for summary jurisdiction offenses.
Dhurjon further criticized the GRA for failing to provide sufficient evidence to support its case. “Where is the evidence? They are unable to disclose the relevant evidence in respect of the charges,” he stated.
The court has scheduled a date for full disclosure on July 8. Mohamed remains on $500,000 bail for the two offenses as the case unfolds.
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