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Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has denied any interference by the executive in the ongoing investigation of Assistant Commissioner of Police Calvin Brutus, who is facing charges related to money laundering and corruption. Speaking at a press conference today, Jagdeo reaffirmed that the investigation has been impartial, stating, “We made it clear at that time that the investigations would be professional. There’ll be no interference from the executive to steer the investigation either way, and that the chiefs may fall where they may.”
Jagdeo revealed that the police force’s internal investigation had recommended multiple charges against Brutus, and the findings had been forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). “If you did illegal things, you will face the consequences,” Jagdeo said, emphasizing that the government had no influence over the case.
The Vice President also addressed claims made by Brutus in a constitutional motion, where Brutus alleged that the government was influencing the investigation to bring charges against him. Jagdeo dismissed these allegations, commenting, “We have no interest whatsoever in that,” and hinted that the government’s response to Brutus’ court motion would be detailed, particularly about illegalities that occurred under Brutus’ administration of the police force.
Jagdeo also clarified that the government does not condone private individuals or businessmen paying for personal events such as weddings or birthdays of public officials, describing such practices as “reprehensible.”
The case continues to unfold, with Jagdeo making it clear that further comments will be withheld due to the ongoing legal proceedings.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Calvin Brutus yesterday filed a fixed date application with the High Court under the Judicial Review Act, Cap 3:06. In the court documents Brutus alledges political interference and abuse of power within the Guyana Police Force.
He stated that he was unlawfully transferred and sent on leave due to fabricated allegations of financial crimes. He claims this was orchestrated by high-ranking government officials, including the acting Commissioner of Police and the Minister of Home Affairs, to facilitate the promotion of other individuals within the Police Force.
The Assistant Commissioner of Police is represented by attorneys: Mr. Earl Daniels, Mr. Yuborn Allicock, and Mr. Domminck Bess, and he has named as respondents the Attorney General, Minister of Home Affairs, Police Service Commission, Commissioner of Police, and the Special Organised Crime Unit.
