By Mark DaCosta- Embattled Assistant Commissioner of Police, Calvin Brutus, has officially been dismissed from the Guyana Police Force (GPF), following a prolonged investigation into serious allegations of financial misconduct and corruption. Brutus, who had been performing the duties of Deputy Commissioner of Police (Administration), was informed of his termination today through a letter from the Police Service Commission (PSC).
The letter, issued on February 5, 2025, was a formal notification that Brutus was dismissed from the force effective immediately. In line with the constitutional and legal provisions that govern police conduct, the PSC invoked its powers under the Police (Discipline) Act and its authority to act on matters of public order and conduct. The letter requested that Brutus return all police assets, equipment, and documents that were in his possession at the time of his termination.
The dismissal is a significant development in the ongoing saga of Brutus’ legal battles and the allegations surrounding his involvement in financial irregularities. This case, which has dominated national headlines, continues to raise questions about transparency, accountability, and the integrity of our national institutions.
The controversy surrounding Calvin Brutus began in late 2023 when the Special Organized Crime Unit (SOCU) initiated an investigation into suspicious financial dealings within the Guyana Police Consumers Cooperative Society Limited (GPCCSL). Brutus, alongside several other individuals, was linked to transactions that involved large sums of money, reportedly totalling hundreds of millions of dollars. The nature of these transactions prompted concerns about possible financial crimes, including money laundering and other illegal activities.
In October 2024, Brutus was formally charged with several serious offenses, including money laundering, conspiracy to defraud, larceny, and misconduct in public office. These charges stemmed from the alleged mismanagement of funds within the GPCCSL, as well as Brutus’ role in facilitating the fraudulent activities. The legal proceedings in Brutus’ case have been complex and drawn out, with multiple court appearances and new charges filed as investigations continued.
Despite the severity of the charges, Brutus was granted bail on a number of occasions.
In November 2024, Brutus responded to the mounting legal challenges by filing a multi-million dollar lawsuit against the SOCU and senior police officers. In this lawsuit, Brutus accused the authorities of misconduct, alleging that the investigation was politically motivated and flawed. His counter-action added further complexity to the case and drew attention to the question of political interference in the investigation.
The timeline of events in the Brutus case continues to evolve, with new revelations coming to light as the legal proceedings unfold. The case has sparked widespread public debate, particularly in light of Brutus’ prominent position within the Guyana Police Force.