The Government of Guyana has issued a formal diplomatic protest to Venezuela following a series of armed attacks on Guyana Defence Force (GDF) troops along the Cuyuni River, near the border between the two countries. The incidents, which occurred between Eteringbang and Makapa, saw gunmen in civilian clothing firing from the Venezuelan side at GDF ranks conducting routine riverine patrols.

According to official statements, three separate attacks took place within a 24-hour period in the early hours of Wednesday and Thursday. The GDF responded with measured force, and no injuries were reported among Guyanese soldiers. The attacks are the latest in a pattern of cross-border hostilities that have raised tensions in the region, particularly as Venezuela prepares for elections in the disputed Essequibo region-a territory administered by Guyana but long claimed by Caracas.

In its diplomatic note to Venezuela’s Ministry of People’s Power for Foreign Relations, Guyana demanded a thorough investigation into the incidents and called for the swift apprehension of those responsible. The government emphasized the need for Venezuela to take concrete steps to prevent further acts of aggression and to bring the perpetrators to justice.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation recalled a similar attack in February 2025, when six GDF soldiers were injured after armed men from Venezuela ambushed their patrol. Despite previous calls for action, Guyana noted with concern the recurrence of such attacks and described the situation as “deeply troubling and unacceptable.”

Guyana has also announced its intention to raise the matter with the international community, as it did following the February incident. The government remains in close coordination with the GDF and other agencies to monitor the situation and ensure the safety of its personnel and the defence of its territory.

Meanwhile, the GDF has placed its troops on high alert and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Guyana’s borders and citizens. The Defence Force has assured the public that regular patrols will continue along the Cuyuni River and that all necessary measures are being taken to maintain peace and security.

These attacks come amid heightened tensions over Venezuela’s plans to hold elections in the Essequibo region, in defiance of an International Court of Justice order prohibiting unilateral actions in the disputed territory. The border controversy, rooted in the 1899 Arbitral Award, remains before the ICJ, with Guyana insisting on respect for the established boundary and international law.