Several Guyanese soldiers injured in shootout near border with Venezuela

Last Updated on Monday, 17 February 2025, 22:31 by Writer

Six Guyana Defence Force (GDF) soldiers sustained injuries, but are in stable condition, when they came under a shooting attack on Monday afternoon by suspected sindicatos—violent Venezuelan gangs—on the Cuyuni River bordering Guyana and Venezuela, the police force said.

Police said at about 3:45 p.m. near Black Water mouth in the Cuyuni River, the 30-foot canoe powered by a 185 horsepower outboard motor was en route from the GDF’s main base at Eteringbang to deliver supplies to the GDF observation post at Makapa when it was intercepted by two wooden boats carrying heavily armed, masked men.

“The assailants circled the GDF boat and opened fire, prompting the GDF ranks to return fire. The exchange resulted in the attackers retreating, but not before multiple GDF members sustained gunshot wounds,” the police force said.

Police said the injured personnel included Second Lieutenant Ansel Murray, who suffered a gunshot wound to the right side of his head; Sergeant Kevon Davis, who was shot in the right foot and ankle; Corporal Andrew Fraser, who sustained gunshot wounds to the left side of his abdomen and shoulder; Corporal Kevin Henry, who was shot in the left arm and shoulder; Lance Corporal Travis Yorrick, who was injured in the right thigh, and Private Ezron Samuel, who was shot in the right side of his abdomen. Despite their injuries, all personnel were reported to be conscious and stable. Medical treatment was administered by GDF medic Lance Corporal Melville at the Makapa GDF Observation Post.

For its part, the GDF said its vessel came under fire from a group of armed men positioned on the Venezuelan bank of the Cuyuni River.

The Defence Force said “immediate efforts are underway to ensure their safe extraction and medical treatment” as “the safety and well-being of its troops remain our highest priority.”

The GDF said it was closely monitoring the situation and has since beefed up its presence in the area. “The GDF 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 remains committed to protecting its borders and will take all necessary measures to address any threats to national security.”