Guyanese Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, rebuffed recent assertions regarding the cause of the tragic helicopter crash last December, emphasizing that the investigation remains ongoing.
Dismissing claims of pilot error as premature, Edghill underscored the necessity of awaiting the conclusive findings before drawing conclusions.
Ongoing investigation challenges premature conclusions
Edghill emphasized that the investigation into the December 9, 2023 helicopter crash, which resulted in the loss of five military officers, including Lieutenant Colonel Michael Charles, remains active.
Appointing an investigator promptly after the incident, Edghill highlighted the importance of adhering to international standards, urging against premature pronouncements regarding the accident’s cause.
Call for caution amid sensationalism
Expressing surprise at the premature conclusions drawn by a recent article, Edghill criticized sensationalism in the media.
Refuting claims of conversations with government officials attributing the crash to pilot error, Edghill stressed the need to await the official report’s release before making assumptions.
Upholding respect for investigative process
Since the appointment of the investigator, Edghill refrained from public commentary, demonstrating respect for the investigative process.
Urging patience among media outlets and the public, Edghill underscored the importance of exercising restraint until the final report is published.
Recap of tragic incident
The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) helicopter lost contact on December 6, 2023, during adverse weather conditions, approximately 30 miles east of the Venezuelan border.
The helicopter’s wreckage was discovered the following day.
