Extradition proceedings against Mohamed’s will continue in Magistrates’ Court

January 5 2025

Extradition proceedings against businessman Azruddin Mohamed and his father, Nazar Mohamed, will continue in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court after Acting Chief Justice Navindra Singh on Monday denied an application to stay the matter.

The application, filed by attorneys for the Mohameds, sought to halt the Magistrate’s Court proceedings while a separate constitutional challenge to the Fugitive Offenders Amendment Act is being heard in the High Court. In his ruling, the Acting Chief Justice held that the extradition case should proceed at the magisterial level even as the High Court considers the substantive constitutional application. Arguments in that main application are expected to be heard shortly.

The Mohameds are the subjects of an extradition request from the United States, where they face an 11-count indictment filed in Florida. The charges relate to alleged money laundering and tax evasion connected to gold exports from Guyana.

Both men have denied the allegations and are actively contesting the extradition request. Following Monday’s ruling, their attorneys indicated that they intend to appeal the decision.

The matter remains before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, with further developments expected as both the extradition proceedings and constitutional challenge continue.