PARAMARIBO — In the investigation into the disappearance of a large batch of mercury seized from the grounds of the Geyersvlijt police station, two police officers have been arrested and placed in custody. KPS spokesperson Inspector Michael Elskamp confirms this. The investigation is currently not only focusing on the suspects, but also on detecting the environmentally hazardous metal.
These are two detectives from the Fraud department, RC and AK. Their rank is not stated. They have been taken into custody by the Capital Crimes Department. The investigation follows the theft of eleven cylinders of mercury weighing more than 500 kilograms in total, which were stolen in May this year from a storage container in the rear of the police post in Paramaribo North.
“The investigation naturally also focuses on the question of where the mercury was taken, so that we can make it safe.”
Police spokesperson Michael Elskamp
Previous arrests
Four other suspects were already arrested at an earlier stage of the investigation. Three of them were sent back after interrogation. The fourth suspect was initially taken into custody, but was later released by the Public Prosecution Service.
According to Inspector Elskamp, such a complex criminal investigation requires time and care. Possible suspects are identified on the basis of investigative actions, clues and findings. Only when facts and circumstances give sufficient reason to formally designate someone as a suspect will an arrest be made. Elskamp does not rule out further arrests at a later stage of the investigation.
Environmental risks
In addition to criminal prosecution of those involved, an important priority is to determine the location of the stolen mercury. The authorities emphasize the risk of the substance, which is frequently used illegally in the Surinamese gold sector. “Mercury is a dangerous substance that poses serious risks, not only for humans but also for the environment. The investigation naturally also focuses on the question of where the mercury has been taken so that we can make it safe,” says Elskamp.
As soon as more detailed information is available about the progress of the investigation, the police will communicate with the community.
