Mohameds’ extradition hearing adjourned to Feb. 16 as Nazar falls ill

Extradition proceedings against businessman Azruddin Mohamed and his father, Nazar Mohamed, were adjourned on Monday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court due to a medical emergency involving Nazar.

Prior to the hearing, attorneys for both sides and the prosecution team held discussions with Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman, who is presiding over the matter.

The proceeding then commenced with defence attorney, Siand Dhurjon, informing the court that while Azruddin was present in court, his father was unable to attend because of a medical emergency. Dhurjon requested that the matter be set for a report date next week to determine when the defence would be in a position to proceed.

Magistrate Latchman enquired whether the prosecution had other witnesses ready. Prosecutor Glenn Hanoman said Permanent Secretary of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Sharon Roopchand-Edwards was present and noted that her testimony was expected to involve lengthy cross-examination. He added that the prosecution understood the circumstances and wished Nazar a speedy recovery.

The matter was adjourned to February 16 for a report.

Asked by the News Room whether it is necessary for Nazar to be present before the proceedings can continue at this point, Hanoman explained that extradition proceedings operate under a “unique” legal framework and that the procedure is not always “clearly defined.”

He noted that in July 2024, preliminary inquiries (PIs) were abolished in Guyana, meaning such matters are now conducted through paper committal. Under the Paper Committal Act, he said, there is provision for proceedings to continue in the absence of an accused under certain conditions.

Hanoman explained that under the former PI system, accused persons were required to be present when depositions were taken, as they had to witness the signing of those statements. However, under the current system, he said if an accused is ill and consents to legal representation in their absence, their attorney can appear on their behalf so that proceedings may continue.

“I don’t think the lawyer for Mr Mohamed would have been able to get his consent for today,” Hanoman said, adding that it would be helpful if such consent were sought ahead of the next hearing.

However, Dhurjon disputed that interpretation of the law, telling reporters, “We don’t believe that’s a correct statement of the law, and in any event there is no such consent.”

He noted that if Nazar Mohamed’s condition improves, he is expected to attend the next hearing in person.

Dhurjon also stated that the magistrate is not open to virtual appearances at this time, noting that a previous request by the prosecution for such an arrangement in the next proceeding was denied.

Speaking with members of the media, Azruddin said his father’s condition worsened on Monday morning and that he is currently hospitalised. He disclosed that Nazar suffers from heart and high blood pressure complications.