NCB Merchant Bank CEO resigns after US$2 million cash seizure investigation

The Chief Executive Officer of NCB Merchant Bank (Trinidad and Tobago) Ltd, Marli Creese, has resigned from the company, with his last day in office being July 30.

His departure comes nearly one month after Customs and Excise officials seized approximately US$2 million in cash at the South Terminal of Piarco International Airport. The money, which belonged to NCB Merchant Bank, was reportedly destined for Miami via Jamaica as part of what the bank described as a legitimate inter-institutional transfer.

The cash was intercepted on June 25 after Customs officials identified what they described as transactional and accountability deficiencies. The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service continues to investigate the matter, while the Central Bank has also indicated it has launched its own inquiry.

NCB Merchant Bank said it has appointed Mahalia Alleyne, the bank’s Head of Operations, as Acting CEO effective August 1. The bank thanked Creese for his service and said the leadership transition will not affect customer accounts or daily operations.

The bank also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening governance and regulatory compliance, noting that additional measures are being introduced to improve oversight of cross-border cash shipments and foreign exchange reporting.

At this stage, no allegations of wrongdoing have been made against Marli Creese, and the investigations by the relevant authorities remain ongoing.