PARAMARIBO, Suriname, CMC – The Public Prosecution Service (OM) on Wednesday warned members of the public of the serious risks associated with sending packages for third parties and handing over their identity card, noting that what initially appears to be an innocent request can lead to criminal prosecution, detention, and a permanent criminal record.
The OM said it has noted a “disturbing increase” in cases where narcotics are concealed in seemingly innocuous gift packages such as food, clothing, or Surinamese Christmas bread, with criminals using postal and courier services to ship drugs abroad.
It warned the public that criminals are trying to trick unsuspecting citizens into sending packages “for a friend or family member abroad,” as well as lending their ID card or a copy of it to be sent via a courier service.
“The Public Prosecution Service emphasizes that your name and identity data can be linked to a criminal offense in this way, even if you had no malicious intent,” it added.
It said that among the legal risks is that under the Narcotics Act, the possession, transportation, export, or shipment of drugs is a criminal offence.
It also warned that anyone sending a package is responsible for its contents, even if they were unaware it contained narcotics, and that lending an ID card can lead to prosecution as an accomplice.
”Ignorance is no excuse: citizens are expected to be cautious and vigilant,” the OM said, noting that the personal consequences can be severe, including arrest and detention, imprisonment, and a criminal record with implications for travel and employment, as well as damage to personal and professional reputation.
The OM said that in addition, these types of crimes harm society and that Suriname’s international reputation is damaged, confidence in postal services decreases, and organized crime and addiction are perpetuated.
The Public Prosecution Service is therefore advising citizens to only ”send packages whose contents you know, never give your ID card or a copy to others, do not use someone else’s ID card to send packages, be alert to vague requests or suspicious smells (and) report suspicious situations to the police “.
It said postal companies are also urged to be vigilant and actively train staff to recognize suspicious shipments.
“Don’t let yourself be taken advantage of. If someone asks you to send a package or borrow your ID, say no. If you have any doubts, don’t send it,” the OM added.
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