A JURISDICTION treaty is in the pipeline to facilitate the exchange of prisoners between Guyana and Suriname.

This is  a result of discussions at the recent two-day meeting, between Guyanese officials and counterparts in the Dutch-speaking neighbouring country, on joint cooperation within the security sector.
The disclosure was made at a press conference on Thursday, hosted by Minister of Home Affairs Mr. Clement Rohee, at his Brickdam, Georgetown office.
The issue was raised by the media, pointing out that many suspects flee this country after committing various crimes and the case of fugitive Rondy Jagdeo, who is wanted by the police for questioning about the execution-style murder of well-known biker Kirk Davis, was cited.
In response, Rohee pointed out that Suriname is a member of the Organisation of American States (OAS) and so is Guyana.
He added that both nations are signatories to the mutual legal assistance treaty that exists so that, within the meaning of the covenant, each has access to the other to collaborate and cooperate.
Rohee said the agreement is clear in the areas of jurisdiction and cooperation, as long as the two remain part of that treaty.

BILATERAL EXTRADITION PACT
He said, notwithstanding the fact that they are neighbours and the type of problems were recognised, they have explored the possibility of a bilateral extradition pact between  them.
The minister said the Surinamese were prepared to also explore that possibility during their talks on September 6 and 7.
He said his delegation left Suriname with the understanding and agreement that they are committed to working toward that outcome.
Meanwhile, Acting Police Commissioner Leroy Brumell, who was also on that visit, said he was, however, alarmed at the large number of Guyanese imprisoned in Suriname.
Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force GDF), Rear Admiral Gary Best, who also accompanied Rohee to Suriname, said, in order to jointly patrol the Corentyne River, some technical issues relating to the powers of arrest need to be ironed out.
As such, the two Attorneys General will meet to discuss jurisdictional matters and the powers to apprehend which has to be dealt with at the highest level.
Best said, though, that whichever country the suspect is closer to, should have the authority to detain and prosecute.
He said they are trying to work within the Corentyne River to avoid any border conflicts.