Residents were urged by the police yesterday to provide information about suspected money-laundering offences after a series of convictions in recent years.

The Bermuda Police Service highlighted investigations by its financial crimes unit that resulted in the seizure of more than $200,000.

Detective Chief Inspector Jason Smith, of the specialist investigations unit, said: “The BPS remains unwavering in its pursuit of those who choose to engage in criminal activity, and we continue to encourage anyone with information regarding suspected money-laundering offences to come forward.

“Together, we have the power to make a difference.”

The Department of Public Prosecutions added: “We are pleased with the rate of detection of money-laundering offences which have led to successful prosecutions and convictions before the courts.

“We acknowledge the hard work of investigating officers in ensuring that these difficult cases are brought before the courts.

“We also wish to express our gratitude to those partner agencies and community members who collaborated with police to make these positive outcomes a reality.”

The BPS said that between 2021 and this year, five people were convicted and monies seized after investigations into suspected money-laundering offences.

The list included New Orleans duo Thaddeus Ramsey, 29, and Merrill Boyd, 35, who pleaded guilty this year to conspiring with other people to removing criminal property from the island between an unknown date and April 21, 2023.

The Lens in New Orleans reported in March that Ramsey, a band leader who is also known as “Peanut”, was found with $10,445 in undeclared cash at LF Wade International Airport last April.

Travellers must declare if they are carrying more than $10,000 in cash, but Ramsey told police he was unaware of the rule.

Cindy Clarke, the Director of Public Prosecutions, told Magistrates’ Court in April that Boyd, who was travelling with Ramsey, had an additional $18,537 on his person.

The BPS said other seizures of cash included $22,000 from an individual in 2021, $55,340 from someone else in 2022, and $78,555 in another case last year.

They added that $16,289 was seized through civil forfeiture this year.

The police said: “These successes were realised, thanks to a collaborative effort involving partner agencies, all with a commitment to prosecuting those who violate the law.

“There are also several matters pending before both the supreme and magistrates’ courts, involving more than $400,000 in alleged unlawful funds.”

Anyone with information about any criminal activity can call the police on 211 or the main police number, 295-0011.

Reports can be made through the online community reporting portal at portal.police.bm or to a police officer.

Calls can also be made to the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers on 800-8477.

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