PARAMARIBO, Suriname, Aug 18, CMC – A judge has sentenced nine people to jail for their involvement in the disappearance of two men who have been reported missing since May 24, 2024.
The men identified only by their initials, were found guilty on a number of charges including participating in a criminal organization, violating the Narcotics Act and the Firearms Act.
They were sentenced on Monday to a prison terms from three to six years, less the time already spent in pre-trial detention. In addition, they received fines ranging from SRD20,000 to SRD 50,000 (One SRD=US$0.02 cents), failing which this they will serve an additional jail terms from three to 11 months.
The court also ordered the seizure of several goods.
In the ruling, the court said that it was abundantly clear from the case file and the statements that the defendants were involved in the criminal organization and narcotics. It pointed to one of the men, identified as “SS”, in particular, whom it said provided detailed statements supported by co-defendants, which showed that they were aware of the drugs and assisted with loading and unloading.
The court said that the defendants were originally charged with offenses such as participation in a criminal organization, preparatory acts, and the export or possession of cocaine.
The court did not agree with the demands of the Public Prosecution Service that the men be jailed for periods ranging from six months to eight years, as well as fines, a detention order, and the confiscation of firearms and vehicles, among other things.
During the hearing, the defense counsel had argued for a full acquittal due to lack of evidence, or alternatively for an appropriate sentence.
CMC/gh/ir/2026