Shaliza Smith, a 29-year-old resident of Lot 11 Hogg Street, Albouystown, was released on $50,000 bail on Wednesday after being arrested for attempting to smuggle seven SIM cards to her imprisoned friend at Camp Street Jail.
Smith appeared before acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, where she pleaded not guilty to the charge. The prosecution alleges that on July 8, 2025, Smith introduced prohibited articles into the prison, specifically nine SIM cards intended for inmate Ray Smith.
In her defense, Smith explained that she was en route to work when her father handed her a bag to deliver to the prison. She claimed she was unaware that the SIM cards were hidden inside, concealed within a tube of Colgate toothpaste, a tactic intended to evade detection during security checks.
During the proceedings, Smith expressed concern for her young children and noted the uncertainty surrounding her employment status due to her arrest. Magistrate McGusty acknowledged the seriousness of the offense but granted bail, considering Smith’s personal circumstances and the ages of her children. The case has been adjourned until July 23, 2025.
Following the incident, the Guyana Prison Service (GPS) emphasized the dangers of contraband smuggling within prison facilities, highlighting that such actions jeopardize the safety of both inmates and officers, as well as the integrity of the prison system. Director of Prisons Nicklon Elliot warned of significant legal ramifications for those caught smuggling contraband into correctional institutions.
21 Year Old Charged with Armed Robbery
