The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has ordered a significant review. This involves a Toyota Land Cruiser. Its registration number is PAB 3000. The vehicle is linked to Opposition leader Azruddin Mohamed. This development is the latest in a series of disputes for the businessman and politician. Police allege the vehicle was illegally transferred. This transfer allegedly breached import and registration conditions. The GRA also noted the vehicle’s bulletproof nature. It features costly security enhancements. The authority has ordered the vehicle’s examination. It also wants any illegal features removed. A specific deadline was set for January 7, 2026.
However, Mohamed’s legal team is strongly contesting these claims. They assert the transfer was lawful. Furthermore, they state it received approval from GRA officials. The attorneys challenge the GRA to name the specific law breached. They also demand written reasons for the GRA’s decision. This situation arises amid broader political tensions in Guyana. Azruddin Mohamed leads the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party. His party became the primary opposition after the 2025 general election.
Previous Tax Disputes and Sanctions
The GRA’s scrutiny of the Land Cruiser is part of a larger pattern. The Mohamed family, including Azruddin and his father Nazar Mohamed, faces significant legal challenges. They were previously sanctioned by the United States government. Allegations include public corruption and tax evasion, with over $50 million in duty taxes on gold exports. The US government also issued an 11-count indictment against them.
There have been other disputes over luxury vehicles. The GRA previously claimed the Mohamed family understated taxes on several high-value cars. This included a Lamborghini. The GRA demanded over $900 million in additional taxes and duties for four luxury vehicles. These included a Ferrari, two Toyota Land Cruisers, and a Lamborghini. The GRA alleged breaches of tax exemption terms and undervaluation.
Mohamed himself has stated these vehicles were older, third-hand models. He claims they were not luxury items. He also argued they were legally registered in Guyana for many years.
Legal Injunctions and GRA Investigations
Court injunctions have previously been granted. These temporarily blocked the GRA from seizing various vehicles belonging to the Mohameds. One such order was extended until April 10, 2025. These legal battles highlight ongoing friction between the family and the tax authority. The GRA asserts it has irrefutable evidence of breaches and understated values.
Furthermore, the GRA recently announced an internal investigation. This probe targets several GRA employees. They are suspected of aiding the illegal transfer of vehicles belonging to Azruddin Mohamed. These transfers allegedly occurred between late November and early December 2025. They reportedly breached vehicle transfer regulations and anti-money laundering rules. The GRA indicated that eleven such transfers were identified. This included luxury vehicles. The agency warned that all participants in these “illegal activities” would face prosecution. Arrests are expected soon. The GRA’s international partners have been informed of these investigations.
Political Context and Defense
Azruddin Mohamed’s political trajectory is notable. He launched the WIN party to contest the 2025 general election. The party secured second place, positioning Mohamed as the likely Leader of the Opposition. His emergence as a political figure has drawn attention. The United States Ambassador warned of potential economic ties being cut with a Mohamed administration.
Mohamed views these investigations as political persecution. He claims the government is targeting him and his family. He has alleged that the government orchestrated campaigns to prevent him from obtaining vehicle insurance. His legal team insists that the transfer of the Land Cruiser was lawful and approved. They maintain that no law prohibits owning bulletproof vehicles.
Broader Regional News
This ongoing news from Guyana touches upon broader regional concerns. Discussions in the Caribbean often involve issues of governance, transparency, and the rule of law. The complexities of vehicle import regulations in Guyana are also relevant. These regulations involve duties, taxes, and specific documentation. The GRA’s power to reassess vehicle values within seven years of import is a key aspect.
The current dispute over the Land Cruiser underscores a pattern of challenges. These involve tax compliance, vehicle imports, and political rivalries. The GRA’s commitment to fair and consistent enforcement is stressed by the authority. However, the Mohamed family claims they are being unfairly targeted.
Conclusion
The GRA’s order regarding Azruddin Mohamed’s Toyota Land Cruiser represents a significant development. It highlights ongoing legal and political battles. The claims of illegal transfer and the vehicle’s security features are central. Mohamed’s defense relies on lawful procedures and alleged political motivation behind the investigation. As these cases unfold, they draw attention to governance and legal processes in Guyana. The regional implications of such disputes are also noteworthy. This news continues to develop today.