Beryllium Guard Arrested After $15M Theft from Armoured Truck

 

A security guard employed by Beryllium Limited has been arrested in connection with the theft of millions of dollars from one of the company’s armoured trucks in St Andrew. The incident, which occurred on October 11, triggered an extensive investigation by both the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and Beryllium’s internal security division.

Key Details

The Jamaica Constabulary Force has confirmed that the 42-year-old guard, accused of stealing more than $15 million, was captured late Thursday at a premises in St Andrew following a week-long manhunt.

According to reports, the guard was part of a three-member Beryllium team assigned to collect cash from the MegaMart Superstore on Waterloo Road, St Andrew. While two colleagues went inside the establishment to conduct the cash collection, the accused remained in the vehicle.

Investigators say the suspect allegedly removed his uniform, left behind his assigned firearm, and escaped the scene with a bag containing the cash. CCTV footage reportedly shows him exiting the compound shortly after his coworkers entered the store.

The police subsequently launched an island-wide search, supported by Beryllium’s internal investigators. His arrest marks a significant development in a case that has drawn wide public attention due to the large sum of money involved and the growing scrutiny on private security operations in Jamaica.

Background

The theft took place on Saturday, October 11, when the Beryllium team was conducting routine cash transit duties. Initial reports indicated that between $15 million and $20 million in cash was stolen from the armoured vehicle.

Following the incident, Beryllium Limited released a statement confirming that an internal investigation had been launched in collaboration with the Jamaica Constabulary Force. The company expressed confidence that its advanced investigative systems would lead to the recovery of the stolen funds and the capture of those responsible.

“We are confident that, with the advanced investigative measures now in progress, there will be positive developments leading to the recovery of the assets and the apprehension of those responsible,” the company stated.

While the total amount stolen has not yet been confirmed publicly, the company said the integrity and safety of its operations remain top priorities and assured clients that measures are being implemented to prevent similar incidents.

Quotes

David Whittaker, Group Managing Director, Guardsman Group of Companies:

“This was not simply about recovering stolen funds; it was about defending the integrity of the hundreds of men and women who put their lives on the line every day to provide essential services to Jamaica’s businesses and banks.

Beryllium stands unwavering in its commitment to ensuring that any individual involved in wrongdoing or unethical practices connected to our company faces the severest form of justice available under the law. We will never tolerate actions that undermine the trust, safety, or reputation of our team or our clients.”

The Guardsman Group, which owns Beryllium Limited, has emphasized that while the recovery of the stolen money remains important, restoring public confidence and upholding corporate ethics are equally vital.

The Jamaica Constabulary Force has also confirmed that the investigation is continuing to determine whether others may have been involved in planning or facilitating the theft.

Analysis

The Beryllium theft case highlights the vulnerabilities within cash logistics operations and the potential risks posed by insider involvement. Security analysts note that while Jamaica’s private security sector has expanded rapidly in recent years, incidents of internal theft or coordinated breaches remain a serious concern.

Companies like Beryllium, which handle billions in cash transfers each year, rely heavily on strict operational protocols and surveillance systems. However, this case underscores that even well-established controls can be compromised by individual misconduct.

The successful arrest of the suspect also underscores the growing coordination between private firms and national law enforcement in financial crime investigations. Beryllium’s swift cooperation with the JCF is likely to serve as a model for future response strategies in cases involving corporate asset theft.

Industry experts have suggested that security companies may need to invest further in psychological screening, continuous training, and digital tracking tools to minimize the risk of insider threats.

Our Opinion

This incident serves as a reminder of the critical importance of trust, transparency, and accountability in Jamaica’s private security industry. While no system is immune to internal breaches, swift action by Beryllium and the Jamaica Constabulary Force demonstrates the value of effective collaboration between corporate and public institutions.

Mykro Wave TV JM believes this case should encourage the sector to adopt even stronger vetting procedures, improve monitoring technology, and prioritize staff welfare to reduce vulnerability to misconduct. Protecting the integrity of Jamaica’s security services is vital not only for businesses but for public confidence in national safety operations.

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