Khemlani, helper charged in illegal cash-for-gold trade

The booming cash-for-gold trade has landed a St Andrew businessman and a household helper in the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate's Court, arising from the alleged sale and purchase of stolen jewellery valued at US$60,000.

Roshan Khemlani, who manages the American Jewellery Store in Tropical Plaza, has been charged with receiving stolen goods, while Tahisha Skirvin is charged with larceny of the jewellery.

The Crown is alleging that Skirvin, who worked with a couple in Cherry Gardens, St Andrew, for three weeks from September 20 to early October, stole the jewellery. The couple discovered their jewellery missing and reported the matter to the police.

Skirvin was questioned about the missing jewellery and she reportedly took the police to a jewellery store where, she said, she sold the jewellery and was paid J$17,000.

It is further alleged that Skirvin pointed out Khemlani as the person who purchased the jewellery. Allegations are that the jewellery, which comprised a gold Yale University graduation ring, bracelets, necklaces and an engagement ring, have been melted.

One of the complainants disclosed that the items of jewellery were purchased over several years while they were living in the United States.

Khemlani and Skirvin have been offered bail and are to return to court on March 10 next year.