The Trinidadian National who reportedly staged his own kidnapping in Guyana was on Tuesday (October, 31) charged and remanded to prison for obtaining ransom money.
Sawak Maraj, 33, a mechanical engineer appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ court before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan.
He denied the charge. The court heard that on October 27, at Madewini Resort Timerhi, he conspired with persons to obtain USD 700,000 as a ransom from his parents.
Police Prosecutor Alwyn Moore objected to bail stating that the offense is a serious one and noted the fact that the accused poses a flight risk.
Maraj will return to court on November 16.
The Trini national came to Guyana last week and was scheduled to check in at the Ramada Hotel, Providence East Bank Demerara, but never arrived at the hotel.
Later on, his parents were contacted in Trinidad via cellphone by an unknown person who indicated that their son was being held hostage in Guyana and a ransom was demanded for his release.
Acting on intelligence, investigators were led to the Soesdyke-Linden Highway, where after several searches in different areas, Mr. Maraj was found at the Madewini Resort, ” well relaxed “.
Two persons who were allegedly involved in making the hotel reservation at the Ramada Hotel are also in custody.