The recent bombings at the East Ruimveldt Police Outpost and the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) substation have prompted heightened national security concerns, as prosecutors strongly opposed bail for a minibus driver accused of facilitating the attacks.
The Charges and Court Proceedings
Seon Carmichael, a 35-year-old minibus driver from Land of Canaan, East Bank Demerara, was charged with facilitating two acts of terrorism linked to the coordinated explosions on May 17. Appearing before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, Carmichael was not required to plead to the indictable charges and was remanded to prison until June 18.
According to investigators, Carmichael allegedly transported suspects and materials used in the bombings, rented hotel rooms, and purchased items believed to be used in constructing the explosive devices. Surveillance footage reportedly shows the vehicle involved in the attacks, though Carmichael was not seen behind the wheel at the time. The prosecution argued that he knowingly aided the suspects and failed to alert authorities, even after being threatened.
Defence Arguments
Carmichael’s attorney, Everton Singh-Lammy, argued that his client acted under extreme duress. He claimed Carmichael was paid $20,000 for his role and was threatened by one of the suspects—a Venezuelan national married to Carmichael’s cousin—who allegedly warned of harm to Carmichael and his family if he refused to cooperate or went to the police. The defence emphasized that Carmichael had no prior convictions, provided full statements to police, and only became aware of the criminal nature of the activities after being coerced.
Prosecution’s Stand: National Security at Stake
Despite the defence’s pleas, the prosecution insisted that the gravity of the offence and the ongoing threat to national security warranted Carmichael’s continued detention. Prosecutors highlighted the panic and risk caused by the bombings, describing them as one of the most brazen acts of domestic terrorism in recent years. They maintained that Carmichael’s actions, whether intentional or under duress, contributed to the suspects’ ability to carry out the attacks and evade detection.
Ongoing Investigation
Police have issued wanted bulletins for three main suspects—two Venezuelan nationals and a Brazilian known only as “Flavio Tasso”—believed to be the masterminds behind the attacks. Investigators continue to gather evidence, including CCTV footage and witness statements, as the search for the suspects intensifies.
The case has underscored the seriousness with which authorities are treating acts that threaten national security, and the courts’ reluctance to grant bail in such high-profile matters. The investigation remains active, with law enforcement urging the public to provide any information that could assist in capturing those still at large.
