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At a press conference held on October 24, 2024, Vice President and General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Bharrat Jagdeo, addressed the ongoing investigation into Assistant Commissioner of Police Calvin Brutus. Jagdeo reaffirmed that the Special Organized Crime Unit (SOCU) had conducted an independent probe, free of political interference, into the allegations of financial crimes against Brutus.
Jagdeo dismissed claims that the government had any involvement in influencing the investigation, emphasizing that the PPP government had ensured SOCU’s independence in pursuing the case. “There was no political cover-up, and we made sure SOCU had the space to conduct a thorough investigation,” Jagdeo stated.
The Vice President also commented on the raid conducted by SOCU and the SWAT team at Brutus’s residence, which Brutus himself criticized as excessive. Jagdeo clarified that the government had no role in deciding how SOCU conducted its investigation, reaffirming that SOCU acted within its mandate. “We do not direct how the police or SOCU handle their investigations,” Jagdeo said, maintaining that SOCU had treated the case like any other involving serious allegations.
Jagdeo took the opportunity to highlight the difference between the current government’s approach and the previous administration, where similar allegations were never fully investigated. The Vice President, however, neglected to offer any specifics. But instead claimed, “This is a government committed to transparency and justice.” Adding, “The chips will fall where they may.”
Brutus, who was granted GUY$6.2 million bail after appearing in tjhe Georgetown Magistrate’s Court today, is facing charges related to fraud, misconduct in public office, and money laundering. He has consistently maintained that the charges are politically motivated, filing a constitutional motion in court alleging harassment to block his career advancement within the Guyana Police Force.
