Former GNSC custom broker cleared of forgery charges

Former customs broker Jailall Bridglall, who was employed at the Guyana National Shipping Corporation (GNSC) Limited has been freed of six forgery charges levelled against him by the Police. The matters were dismissed by Magistrate Rondell Weever who upheld a no-case submission by his lawyer, Bernard Da Silva.

It was alleged that on August 7, 2020, at Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) Head Office Camp Street, Georgetown, with intent to defraud, he forged a letter with bill of lading # CCGH438394; 810 – 88208094; 81087804872; Custom Declaration form # C 283; 285; 284; all purporting to show that same originated from the GNSC and signed by its agent, knowing same to be forged.
Bridglall had pleaded not guilty to all the charges during his first appearance at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. He had been out on cash bail pending the hearing and determination of his trial.
During his trial, the prosecution called several witnesses to prove its case. But at the close of its case, Bridglall’s lawyer submitted that the prosecution failed to prove the elements of the offence.
As such, he submitted that a prima facie case was not established against his client and the charges should be dismissed. Magistrate Weever, in the end, upheld the no-case submission made by the lawyer and dismissed the case. (G1)