The Guyana Police Force (GPF) is warning the public, particularly those in the business community, to exercise caution in light of an emerging online extortion scheme. Reports indicate that individuals and businesses are receiving emails from purported investigative reporters claiming to uncover drug trafficking networks operating within Guyana.
According to the GPF, these emails often accuse recipients of being linked to narcotics trafficking and request their statements or responses regarding these allegations. In follow-up communications, the senders demand financial contributions or “restitution proposals” in exchange for halting the publication of the alleged findings.
The police have clarified that such actions constitute criminal offenses, including attempted extortion and obtaining money by false pretenses, among other cyber-related crimes.
Members of the public are strongly advised not to engage with or make any payments to those making such demands. Anyone who receives similar communications is urged to report the matter immediately to the nearest police station or the Criminal Investigation Department. Victims should also provide copies of the emails or any related correspondence to aid in investigations.
The Guyana Police Force is actively monitoring the situation and encourages the public to remain vigilant against these fraudulent activities.
