On June fourth we reported that a female immigration officer had been busted at the PGIA with over $11,000 in U.S currency. Since then we have heard little about it or what charges if any would be brought against those involved. Well late this evening 7NEWS understands that charges have been lodged at the Magistrate’s Court against Maria Guerra, a grade three immigration officer, and Jose Aldana, the person who allegedly brought the money into the country.
Information is that Maria Guerra and Jose Aldana have been charged with evasion of custom laws relating to the importation of U.S. currency. Jose Aldana has been additionally charged with false declaration. Reports to 7NEWS that Jose Aldana had arrived on an afternoon flight and allegedly left a bag in the possession of Maria Guerra. It is reported that while Guerra was heading to her office she was stopped by both Customs and police officials. A search of the bag revealed that it contained in excess of US$10,000 that had not been declared. Sources tell 7NEWS the amount was US$11,400.
While 7NEWS understands that the charges have been lodged at the Magistrate’s Court both of the accused have yet to receive any summons. We understand that Maria Guerra is represented by her attorney Michael Peyrefitte while Jose Aldana is represented by Jeremy Courtenay.
