English national Trevor Whyte, a 42-year-old ‘recording artiste’ and businessman, has been arrested and charged for ‘possession of criminal property’, ‘cross-border movement of funds’ and ‘attempted bribery’ following his arrival at the Sangster International Airport.

Whyte, who stays in White House, Westmoreland, while in Jamaica and claims a permanent address in Enfield, London, was intercepted after arriving on a Virgin Atlantic flight from London on Thursday, May 1.

Upon entering the “nothing to declare” customs channel, Whyte was selected for routine inspection. During the scanning of his luggage, some abnormalities were detected, prompting a physical search. This search revealed three suspicious bottles labelled as “Head & Shoulders Anti-Dandruff Shampoo and Conditioner”. An examination of the bottles revealed US currency concealed in plastic wrap.

Further inspection of the plastic-wrapped packages yielded a total of US$130,490. Whyte allegedly attempted to bribe Jamaica Customs Agency officers, encouraging them to take two of the packages and allow him to leave with the remainder of the money.

Whyte claimed the funds were legitimate earnings from musical performances and were intended to support business activities in Jamaica. However, he was unable to provide evidence of the lawful source of the funds. The method of concealment, coupled with the attempt to evade disclosure, prompted immediate seizure of the cash and referral of the case to the FID for investigation.

Following a formal interview in the presence of his attorney, Charishana Fregenett, at the Freeport Police Station in St James on Friday, May 9, Whyte was arrested and charged.

“The concealment of cash in shampoo bottles, coupled with an attempted bribe, underscores the sophisticated tactics that individuals use to bypass established financial systems. Our investigators remain vigilant and resolute in disrupting illicit financial flows that threaten Jamaica’s financial system and international reputation,” said Keith Darien, FID’s Principal Director of Financial Crimes Investigations. He added, “This case highlights the importance of collaboration and strategic partnerships between the FID and its local law enforcement counterparts such as the Jamaica Customs Agency and the JCF. We will also continue to work closely with international partners to stem the flow of illicit funds and ensure accountability under the law.”