The list of possible reasons why Melissa “Melly Mel” Atwell was taken into custody by U.S. law enforcement officers is long. She could be questioned on a number of allegations ranging from alleged Credit Card fraud to cyber-bullying.
A source told this publication that the social media activist remains in custody and is being grilled.
The source also confirmed that Guyanese authorities have been informed that Atwell was taken into custody. However, no word has been given on the specific matters being investigated. “We are aware that there are many matters before US authorities involving that social media figure. The government itself has registered several official complaints against her. Then there are Guyanese who are also citizens of the US who made reports to law enforcement over there. You also cannot forget the allegations of credit card fraud. Further, she has strong links to the Mohammeds. Then there is the matter surrounding her status in the US. She has alot stacked against her,” the source said.
Confirmation that Atwell remains in custody came moments after Vice-President President Bharrat Jagdeo said that if she is deported, she will be welcomed back to Guyana.
Atwell has been critical of the Government of Guyana and private citizens perceived as close to the administration, highlighting allegations of corruption among other things.
The development also comes on the heels of a $100M lawsuit filed against Atwell by Guyanese Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, who vowed that the government would pursue legal recourse both locally and internationally. He had also encouraged others allegedly wronged by Atwell to do the same.
