GUYANA | Compensation and Apology to Lawyer Tameika Clarke Following Unlawful Arrest

GEORGETOWN, Guyana, November 24, 2023 -  In a landmark decision, the Guyana High Court has ordered the Guyana Police Force to issue a formal apology and pay GY$700,000 in compensation to Attorney-at-Law, Tameika Clarke.

This ruling comes over a year after Clarke's wrongful arrest by the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) while she was representing a client accused of computer-related fraud.

Chief Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire directed the apology and compensation, highlighting a significant violation of legal rights.

The apology, issued by Police Superintendent Krishnadat Ramana and Assistant Police Commissioner Fazil Karimbaksh of SOCU, acknowledged the infringement of Clarke's rights to advise her client, expressing  regret over their "error in judgment" that led to the violation of Clarke's and her client's rights.

In addition to the apology and compensation, the High Court mandated the inclusion of specific training in the Guyana Police Force's curriculum. This training, focused on key constitutional articles and international human rights conventions, aims to prevent such incidents in the future.

The ruling also ordered additional compensation if there is non-compliance with these directives. Clarke is to receive an additional GY$300,000, along with legal costs totaling GY$250,000, if the orders are not followed.

The incident, which occurred on October 28, 2022, sparked widespread condemnation from various legal associations, including the Guyana Bar Association, the Jamaica Bar Association, and the Commonwealth Lawyers Association. The arrest led to a rare protest by lawyers across Guyana, showcasing the legal community's solidarity with Clarke.

Clarke, represented by Attorney-at-Law Nigel Hughes, pursued legal action against the State through Attorney General Anil Nandlall. Her arrest and the subsequent seizure of her mobile phone were deemed unjustifiable, leading to this significant ruling in her favor. This case has been a focal point in discussions about police conduct and the protection of legal rights in Guyana.

-30-