Army boat attacked, several soldiers shot by armed men on Cuyuni River

Several soldiers were shot after a Guyana Defence Force (GDF) vessel came under gunfire by suspected armed individuals linked to the Sindicatos gang.

The incident occurred around 15:45 hrs on Monday near Black Water Mouth in the Cuyuni River.

A GDF team was traveling by boat from the Eteringbang GDF main base to the Makapa GDF Observation Post to deliver supplies when they were intercepted by two wooden boats carrying heavily armed, masked assailants.

The attackers circled the GDF vessel and opened fire, prompting the GDF ranks to return fire.

The exchange led to multiple GDF soldiers sustaining gunshot wounds before the attackers retreated. Those injured are Second Lieutenant Ansel Murray, he was shot to the right side of the head; Sergeant Kevon Davis was shot in the right foot and ankle; Corporal Andrew Fraser received gunshot wounds to the left side of the abdomen and shoulder; Corporal Kevin Henry was shot in the left arm and shoulder; Lance Corporal Travis Yorrick was shot in the right thigh and Private Ezron Samuel was shot in the right side of the abdomen.

Despite their injuries, all soldiers were reported to be conscious and in stable condition. Medical treatment was provided by GDF medic Lance Corporal Melville at the Makapa GDF Observation Post.

Local authorities are continuing their investigation into the attack.