THE investigation into the Brazilian aircraft which was found on an illegal airstrip near Santa Fe in North Rupununi in August, has been completed.

According to Minister of State, Joseph Harmon the report on the investigation is now with Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan. “The police investigation into that matter I understand it is completed and the Minister of Public Security is in possession of the report and recommendation,” Minister Harmon told reporters at the Ministry of the Presidency on Friday.

The Beechcraft King Air 350 aircraft was flown to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport shortly after being discovered by security forces.
The twin-engine aircraft bearing registration PR-IMG is tied to an investment bank in neighbouring Brazil – Banco Bradesco. That bank had facilitated the sale of the aircraft between its owners, a Rio-based company and another private entity.

The bank is listed by the Brazilian authorities as the owner, since the process of transfer of ownership is ongoing.
Minister Harmon said that Guyana has been in communication with some persons from Brazil who have claimed the aircraft was stolen from them. “But we asked them to provide some further information to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and that information has not been forthcoming,” he stated.

Asked whether evidence suggests that there was collusion of local police officers here, Harmon reiterated that the report and its findings are now with the Public Security Minister. The Guyana Chronicle was unable to make contact with Minister Ramjattan.
However, Minister Harmon said, “if in fact there has been collusion, then certainly action will be taken.

“I want to give you this assurance that in cases which have to do with national security and national defence, once anyone is found to be in collusion with any foreign entities that seek to affect the security of the state and the integrity of our borders, those matters are taken very, very seriously.”

The discovery was made just a week after soldiers had found another illegal airstrip, a chain saw, aviation fuel, 12 abandoned camps and several dug-out trenches in the same area.

Government has been working with local and international partners to build capacity and strengthen security within and around the country.