In a serious escalation of tensions along the Guyana-Venezuela border, six Guyanese soldiers were injured in an armed attack on Monday, February 17, 2025. The incident, which occurred along the Cuyuni River near the Venezuelan border, has prompted a thorough investigation by Guyanese authorities and raised concerns about regional security.
The Attack
The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) reported that a resupply patrol en route from Eteringbang to Makapa came under fire from armed individuals positioned on the Venezuelan side of the Cuyuni River. The soldiers engaged in a firefight with the assailants, resulting in injuries to six GDF personnel.
The injured soldiers have been identified as:
- Second Lieutenant Ansel Murray (gunshot wound to the head)
- Sergeant Kevon Davis (shot in the right foot and ankle)
- Corporal Andrew Fraser (wounds to abdomen and shoulder)
- Corporal Kevin Henry (injured in left arm and shoulder)
- Lance Corporal Travis Yorrick (shot in the right thigh)
- Private Ezron Samuel (wounded in the right side of abdomen)
Two of the soldiers are reported to be in critical condition.
Government Response
President Irfaan Ali has taken a firm stance on the incident, emphasizing its gravity. “We are taking this very seriously,” he stated, adding that “even if it is an armed gang or one of those organizations that operate on the Venezuelan side of the border, this is serious because they fired on ranks in uniform”.
The President has assured that a thorough evaluation is underway to determine the facts surrounding the attack. He has personally spoken with the injured soldiers, expressing gratitude for their service and assuring them of the nation’s support.
Military Action and Investigation
The GDF has mobilized to reinforce its presence in the area, demonstrating its commitment to protecting Guyana’s borders and addressing threats to national security. An investigation into the incident is ongoing, with the attack suspected to have been carried out by the notorious Sindicato gang.
Regional Context
This incident occurs against the backdrop of longstanding territorial disputes between Guyana and Venezuela. The attack has raised concerns about the potential involvement of non-state actors in the border region and their impact on bilateral relations.
The Sindicato gang has been known to operate in Guyana’s hinterland, occasionally harassing, robbing, and even killing Guyanese citizens. Their presence and activities complicate the already tense situation along the border.
International Implications
The attack comes just months after leaders from both nations pledged to refrain from threats or military action against one another during an emergency summit in late 2023. This incident may potentially strain the delicate diplomatic balance between the two countries.
As Guyana continues its investigation and reinforces its border presence, the international community will be closely watching how this situation develops and its potential impact on regional stability.
