Guyana's Opposition Leader and Father Arrested Amid U.S. Fraud Charges

Azruddin Mohamed and his father Nazar were arrested in Guyana on U.S. fraud charges. The government received an extradition request, prompting their handcuffed court appearance. The Mohamed family condemns the arrests, citing brutality. Azruddin's new party secured 16 seats in parliament, intensifying claims of political persecution.

On Friday, Azruddin Mohamed, leader of Guyana's leading opposition party, and his father, Nazar Mohamed, a prominent gold magnate, were arrested following the United States' charges of fraud and corruption, according to Guyana's attorney general. The arrest followed an extradition request received the previous day.

Local media released videos showing Azruddin Mohamed being detained, as well as the men's arrival at Georgetown's magistrates' court, escorted by masked law enforcement officers. The Mohamed family strongly criticized the arrests, alleging police misconduct during the process. Hadiyyah Mohamed openly condemned the actions on Facebook, citing witness testimony of police brutality.

Despite the serious allegations, the ruling party denies any political motivation. Azruddin, who emerged in the political scene with the WIN party, which gained substantial parliamentary seats, alleges persecution by President Irfaan Ali's administration. The Mohameds face charges in Florida for conspiracy to commit fraud and money laundering. They plan to contest extradition procedures, with their legal battle potentially reaching the Caribbean Court of Justice.

(With inputs from agencies.)