St Lucia: Police eye cash for gold trade

The St. Lucian Police say they are keeping a close watch on the growing cash-for-gold business in St. Lucia and across CARICOM.



The cash-for-gold trade is being blamed for an increase in robberies.



The practice involves the exchange of gold and other precious metals for cash and other rewards.



The police are blaming the hunger for gold for this week’s attack on a Castries jeweler, who was beaten and robbed of $90,000 in gold jewellery.



Police Commissioner Vernon Francois said while the cash-for-gold trade is legitimate, the police are seeking to ensure that the business is not used for money laundering or further gold theft.