An investigation has been launched into the shooting of six members of the Guyana Defence Force on Monday in the Cuyuni River.
According to a statement from the police the incident occurred at 15:45 hrs near Black Water Mouth in the Cuyuni River as the ranks were on their way from the border community of Eteringbang where the army’s main base is located to Makapa GDF Observation Post to deliver supplies.
According to the statement issued by the Corporation Communications Unit of the police, the team was in a thirty-foot canoe powered by a horsepower Yamaha engine. During the journey the GDF boat was intercepted by wooden boats carrying heavily armed and masked men. The group said to be Sindicatos, an armed Venezuelan gang noted for their criminal activities in mining areas reportedly circled the boat, opening fire on the GDF ranks, prompting the ranks to return fire. The exchange resulted in the attackers retreating but not before multiple GDF ranks sustained gunshot injuries.
However, the army in a statement of its own said the armed men were positioned on the Venezuelan Bank of the Cuyuni River and opened fire on the ranks. The patrol immediately responded to the attack and engaged the assailants with return fire.
Those injured are: Second Lieutenant Ansel Murray – he was shot to the right side of his head; Sergeant Kevon Davis – shot to his right foot and ankle; Corporal Andrew Fraser – sustained two gunshot injuries to his left side abdomen and shoulder; Corporal Kevin Henry – was shot to his left arm and shoulder; Lance Corporal Travis Yorrick – was injured in his right thigh and Private Ezron Samuel was shot in his right-side abdomen.
The army said it has been mobilized to reinforce its presence in the area, ensuring the security of its personnel and safeguarding the territorial integrity of Guyana. The force said it remains committed to protecting the borders and will take all necessary measures to address threats to national security.
The army said it is closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
Meanwhile, President Irfaan Ali in a statement today said he spoke with the injured men and that they were in high spirits. The army’s Bell 412 helicopter was in enroute to carry out a medical evacuation. The president said he expressed his gratitude to the men for their service at the borders and assured them of the nation’s support and his concern for their wellbeing.