Mohameds’ Lawyer Challenges Datadin’s No Bail Stance in Extradition Cases

Attorney-at-law Siand Dhurjon has challenged the assertion made by fellow attorney Sanjeev Datadin regarding the bail status of Nazar Mohamed and Azruddin Mohamed, who are wanted for financial crimes by U.S. authorities. Datadin’s claim that the fugitives should not receive bail due to constitutional restrictions has been contested in the context of extradition proceedings.

Legal Standpoint on Bail in Extradition Cases

During a recent court session, Dhurjon highlighted that the High Court possesses the authority to grant bail under the Fugitive Offenders Act. He pointed out that bail matters referenced by Datadin relate more to the Magistrates’ Court, not the High Court.

Dispute Over Legal Interpretations

Dhurjon asserted that had Datadin been informed about their bail application from the previous day, he would have avoided what Dhurjon described as a significant legal misjudgment. He emphasized, “Bail under the Fugitive Offenders Act applies to extraditable offenses.”

• The Mohameds were granted bail of GY$150,000 each on November 2, 2025.
• The extradition request was submitted to the Guyanese government by the U.S. on October 30, 2025.
• Article 139(i) of Guyana’s Constitution governs the conditions under which personal liberty may be restricted.

Upcoming Court Hearing and Extradition Background

The next court appearance for the Mohameds is scheduled for November 10, 2025. The Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, indicated that the government will provide the defense team with necessary documents from the U.S. to prepare for the upcoming hearing.

The Mohameds face serious allegations of tax evasion related to over 10,000 kilograms of gold exports, amounting to US$50 million in unpaid taxes to the Guyana government. Their indictment by a U.S. grand jury was unsealed recently, further escalating the legal proceedings.

Controversy Over Political Motivations

The Attorney General refuted claims suggesting that the actions against the Mohameds stem from political motivations. He maintained that the involvement of Jamaican lawyers ensures competent legal representation devoid of political bias.

Previous Legal Precedents

Dhurjon reminded the court of past cases where bail was granted during extradition proceedings. He referenced a successful defense earlier this year for Junior Da Silva, who was involved in similar circumstances but was granted bail by Magistrate Clive Nurse.

• Dhurjon cited Section 15(2) of the Fugitive Offenders Act, which empowers courts to admit individuals to bail during extradition proceedings.
• He noted cases where defendants, even in extradition scenarios, successfully secured bail.

Dhurjon’s robust defense indicates ongoing legal debates surrounding extradition and bail rights, underscoring the complexities of international law as it pertains to Guyanese citizens. Observers await the results of the next court hearing, which could change the course of these proceedings significantly.