Authorities have launched a full investigation after two powerful explosions rocked the East Ruimveldt Police Outpost and the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Substation in Georgetown early Saturday morning, raising concerns about the security of public infrastructure and the possibility of a coordinated attack.
The first explosion occurred around 12:40 a.m. at the East Ruimveldt Police Outpost, located at the intersection of Vlissengen Square and East Front Road. A police constable on duty reported hearing two loud blasts from the southern side of the compound. The force of the explosion blew away the southern metal gate, which was later found about six feet from the outpost, and caused significant damage to the concrete wall. Security camera footage captured a bright flash and flames erupting from the rear of the building, while debris rained down onto nearby rooftops. The blast briefly halted traffic and left visible gouges in the street, but no injuries were reported.
Moments after the outpost explosion, a second blast was reported at the GPL Substation on Mandela Avenue. Police say the substation suffered “suspicious damage,†and both incidents are being treated as potentially linked. Forensic teams and the Crime Scene Unit were quickly dispatched to both locations, collecting evidence and analyzing CCTV footage. Eyewitnesses in the area have provided valuable accounts, and several individuals are being questioned as part of the ongoing probe.
Investigators recovered fragments of a hard plastic container, bolts, and nuts from the scene, confirming that an improvised explosive device (IED) was used in the attack on the police outpost. The Crime Chief has stated that while the specific type of device is still under review, the act was deliberate and intended to cause significant damage.
Authorities have not yet identified any suspects or established a motive for the explosions. The Guyana Police Force is urging anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing that the incidents are being taken very seriously and that all efforts are being made to ensure public safety.
The explosions have reignited public concerns about security in the capital, especially as such attacks are rare but not unprecedented in Guyana’s history. As the investigation continues, residents and officials alike are calling for heightened vigilance and swift action to bring those responsible to justice.
