Man arrested in GPL fraud attempt

June 12 2026

Guyana Power and Light Inc. (Guyana Power and Light Inc.) is warning members of the public to remain vigilant following a fraud attempt involving an individual impersonating a company employee and demanding a large sum of money from a customer.

According to GPL, the incident was reported by Fizal Ally, a resident of East Bank Demerara and owner of an apartment building at Fourth Street, Albertown, Georgetown, after he was contacted by someone claiming to be a GPL worker.

The impostor alleged that the electricity meter at the property had been removed due to suspected electricity theft and demanded $300,000 to facilitate its replacement and prevent further action. GPL later confirmed that the meter had indeed been removed on Thursday, June 11, as part of standard procedures.

Following continued communication and arrangements for payment, Ally became suspicious and reported the matter to GPL, which immediately alerted the police.

A joint operation was launched, leading to the arrest of the suspect at the junction of Brickdam and Vlissengen Road while he was allegedly attempting to collect the money. An accomplice reportedly fled the scene in motor vehicle PAF 1605. The removed meter has not yet been recovered.

The suspect has been identified as Mark Calder of Sparendaam, East Coast Demerara, and is currently in custody at the Alberttown Police Station as investigations continue. GPL has confirmed that he is not employed by the company.

The utility company is urging the public to use only official payment channels and to verify any suspicious requests by contacting GPL directly at 226-2600 or through its official communication platforms.

GPL says it remains committed to protecting customers and working with law enforcement to prevent fraudulent activity.