The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) has intensified its presence along the Cuyuni River following a series of recent attacks on its troops by armed men in civilian clothing believed to be operating from the Venezuelan side of the border.
Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, confirmed that the GDF has stepped up riverine patrols between Eteringbang and Makapa and is fully prepared to respond to any further aggression. The move comes after three separate incidents in which GDF personnel were reportedly targeted while conducting security operations in the area.
“The entire Cuyuni River is Guyanese territory,” Brigadier Khan stated, emphasizing that both the GDF and the Guyana Police Force have full authority to patrol, stop, and search vessels navigating those waters. “Since the first incident, the GDF has heightened its operational posture and implemented drills designed to mitigate and respond effectively. These drills have been executed successfully.”
One hotspot identified by the GDF is an area known as Baboon, located on the Venezuelan side of the river. According to Brigadier Khan, it is notorious for intercepting civilian boats and extorting money for safe passage. The remote area is far from major settlements, as no gunfire was heard in nearby Makapa, roughly 20 kilometers away.
In response to the attacks, the GDF has begun enforcing vessel stop-and-search procedures in the area—a measure previously deemed unnecessary. Brigadier Khan noted that personnel are currently stationed in nearly all of the 13 villages along the Cuyuni River, and that communities have so far welcomed the heightened military presence.
“During visits to four border villages, residents expressed relief, not fear,” Khan reported.
The Defence Chief also issued a strong warning to any Guyanese nationals who participate in elections organized by the Venezuelan regime, declaring that such involvement would be considered treasonous and treated as an attempted coup. Venezuelan nationals living in Guyana who are found participating in these elections will face arrest and deportation.
“Under the Defence Act Chapter 15:01, we have an obligation to protect our territorial integrity and our people,” Brigadier Khan said. “This is a mission we take seriously, and we will continue to patrol the same area and eliminate any threat to our citizens and our territory.”
Khan assured the public that the GDF remains vigilant and fully prepared for any eventuality amid growing tensions near the disputed border with Venezuela.
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