The Guyana Police Force (GPF) is advising members of the public, particularly the business community, to remain vigilant as an emerging online extortion scheme targets individuals and companies across Guyana.

According to the police, several reports have surfaced of persons receiving emails from individuals or entities claiming to be conducting investigative reporting into alleged drug trafficking networks operating within the country.

In many cases, the emails accuse recipients of having links to narcotics trafficking operations and request that they provide statements or responses to the allegations.

However, police said the scheme escalates after the initial communication, with follow-up messages demanding money in exchange for suppressing the supposed investigative findings.

The GPF warned that such actions are criminal in nature.

“The Guyana Police Force wishes to make it clear that such actions constitute offences including attempted extortion, obtaining money by false pretence, and cyber-related offences,” the Force said in a statement.

Authorities are urging the public not to engage with the individuals behind these messages or make any form of payment in response to the demands.

Persons who receive such communications are encouraged to report the matter immediately to the nearest police station or to the Criminal Investigation Department, while also providing copies of the emails or related correspondence to assist with investigations.

The police also indicated that they are closely monitoring the situation and are urging citizens and members of the business community to remain cautious when responding to unsolicited emails containing allegations or financial demands.