Guyana politician arrested in major marijuana bust; AFC urges due process

Guyana’s opposition Alliance For Change (AFC) has called on the public and the media to allow the judicial process to take its course following the arrest of one of its members, former legislator and educator Devin Sears, during a police drug operation on Monday night.

According to police, Sears, 39, was taken into custody after law enforcement officers discovered more than 310 kilograms of marijuana in a minibus he was driving near the Old Bamia Police Checkpoint in Linden, the second largest city in Guyana. He was reportedly accompanied by Albert Sandy, a 69-year-old farmer.

Police said Sears initially claimed that he was transporting “tourism plants.” However, a search of the vehicle uncovered 22 bulky black plastic bags and four large brown canvas bags filled with leaves, seeds, and stems suspected to be cannabis. Both men were arrested and cautioned on the spot.

In a statement issued Tuesday, the AFC said it had taken note of the reports regarding the arrest of Sears and another individual, noting that the second man has claimed ownership of the suspected marijuana, while Sears remains in custody.

Describing Sears as “an active member” of the party, the AFC emphasized that “all persons are entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty in a court of law.”

“The AFC firmly believes in upholding the rule of law and due process and trusts that the relevant authorities will conduct a fair, transparent, and impartial investigation into the matter,” the party said.

It added that the AFC remains committed to “integrity, accountability, and lawful conduct” among its members and “does not condone any act that contravenes the laws of Guyana or undermines public trust.”

The party further urged the public and media to refrain from speculation that could prejudice the outcome of the investigation, while expressing its support for Sears “as he faces the challenges before him.”