Guyana Condemns Armed Assault on Soldiers Near Venezuela Border
Georgetown, Guyana – On February 17, 2025, six Guyana Defence Force (GDF) soldiers sustained injuries during an armed confrontation with suspected Venezuelan criminal gang members along the Cuyuni River, escalating tensions between the neighboring nations.
Incident Details
The altercation occurred near Black Water Mouth in the Cuyuni River, Region Seven, as a GDF resupply patrol traveled from Eteringbang to the Makapa Observation Post. The GDF vessel was intercepted by two wooden boats carrying heavily armed, masked individuals. The assailants circled the GDF boat and opened fire, prompting the soldiers to return fire. The attackers retreated, but not before multiple GDF members sustained gunshot wounds. The injured soldiers were evacuated to Georgetown for medical treatment and are reported to be in stable condition.
Government Response
In response to the attack, Foreign Affairs Minister Hugh Todd summoned Venezuelan Ambassador Carlos Perez to express Guyana’s outrage. Minister Todd emphasized that, under international law, Venezuela is responsible for any harm caused to Guyana or its nationals by individuals operating from Venezuelan territory. He urged Venezuela to prevent its territory from being used for such attacks and to dismantle criminal gangs operating in the border region. Minister Todd also criticized Venezuela’s failure to denounce the incident and take action against the perpetrators, warning that “inaction is complicity.”
Opposition’s Stance
The People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) expressed alarm over the attack and called for an urgent review and enhancement of Guyana’s security and defense arrangements along the Venezuela border. The party praised the bravery of the injured soldiers and recommended that the GDF be equipped with modern weaponry, surveillance technology, and rapid response capabilities to better withstand future threats.
Venezuela’s Position
Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil accused Guyana of spreading a “false, hostile and malicious narrative” regarding the incident. He labeled the information as a “false-flag operation and fake news” intended to manipulate public opinion and divert attention from alleged violations of international law by Guyana.
Historical Context
This incident occurs amid a longstanding territorial dispute between Guyana and Venezuela over the Essequibo region, an area rich in minerals and near significant offshore oil deposits. Venezuela claims that an 1899 arbitration ruling unjustly stripped it of the territory, while Guyana maintains that the ruling is binding. In late 2023, leaders from both countries attended an emergency summit where they pledged to avoid the use of force but did not resolve the territorial dispute.
Local Impact
Residents along the Cuyuni River have long expressed concerns about the presence of Venezuelan criminal gangs, known as “sindicatos,” who frequently harass and extort locals. The recent attack has heightened fears among residents, with many feeling unsafe and anxious about potential retaliation. There have been reports of extortion and harassment at border checkpoints, further contributing to the insecurity in the region.
Conclusion
The Guyanese government has reinforced its military presence in the area and is closely monitoring the situation. Authorities have pledged to take all necessary measures to protect the nation’s borders and ensure the safety of its citizens. The international community is watching closely, as the incident has the potential to further strain relations between Guyana and Venezuela.