Army Major suspected in visa racket
Stabroek News
June 12, 2003
The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) is continuing investigations into reports that one of its officers was involved in a suspected United States visa scam. The soldier, a Major, is still on duty, but senior army sources yesterday said they were still gathering evidence and that it was quite possible that he would have to face court martial proceedings.
Stabroek News understands that as one of his duties, the officer recommended other ranks for visas if they had to go abroad to study or in other cases. However, sources told this newspaper that the Major would have to first be instructed by GDF Chief-of-Staff Brigadier Michael Atherly, before he writes to the US Embassy in Georgetown recommending persons for visas.
According to reports, the officer allegedly abused the privilege by writing letters for civilians, some of whom he purported to claim were relatives of serving army personnel. This newspaper understands that there is no evidence as yet to support allegations that the officer collected money for the service.
Army sources said that more often than not, persons recommended by the army were successful in obtaining visas.
It is believed that the officer’s racket fell through after he recommended his aunt, who he claimed was the maid of a senior officer.
