A 44-year-old man was, on Monday, charged for attempting to export gold without an export licence.

Vibert Marks of Independence Street, La Grange, appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and denied the charge when it was read to him by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan. He was granted $200,000 bail.

It is alleged that, on November 18, 2019, at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), when he was not a producer, Marks had in his possession 974.13 grams of raw gold valued at $7,332,416.00, without being the holder of an export licence.

Police Persecutor Gordon Mansfield objected to bail being granted to Marks and told the court that, on the day in question, Marks was at the CJIA, on his way to the United States of America and, when his suitcase was being checked in, a darkish object was found in the corner of the suitcase.

Mansfield added that a Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) officer then asked Marks what the object was and Marks said that he was carrying 20 ounces of gold. A further search was conducted and a large quantity of raw gold was found. An investigation was carried out and Marks was arrested and charged.

Mansfield also told the court that Markwasis being investigated for another matter which was expected to be read in court on November 26, 2019. He said the accused was also being investigated for money laundering.

Magistrate McLennan released Marks on $200,000 bail and ordered him to report to Special Organized Crime Unit (SOCU) every day until the matter was completed. The matter was adjourned.