Bar shut down, several arrested following video of woman’s assault – Minister Persaud calls for public vigilance

The Guyana Police Force has shut down a city bar and arrested several persons following the circulation of a shocking video which showed a young woman being sexually violated in full view of patrons, with onlookers filming instead of intervening.

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud, confirmed the development in a statement on her Facebook page on Friday, describing the incident as “most reprehensible” and condemning the behaviour of those who chose to record rather than help the victim.

“It was terrible to see the DJ encouraging the perpetrator to perform lewd acts on the victim while others looked on. I immediately alerted the Guyana Police Force and the Ministry of Home Affairs, and we have been collaborating to address this reprehensible incident,” the Minister said.

The bar where the incident occurred has since been identified and ordered closed, and multiple persons are now in police custody. Minister Persaud assured that all necessary support will be given to the young woman through her Ministry.

“I urge persons not to share the video as this is a further violation of the victim,” she appealed. “We must be more public-spirited — not just record these things but step in and help, and report them immediately.”

See statement from Guyana Police Force:

As part of the ongoing probe, the establishment’s owner, Mr. Omesh Raghoo, has been called in and is assisting investigators with their inquiries. The bar has been closed indefinitely pending the outcome of the investigation.

The Guyana Police Force takes incidents of this nature very seriously and remains committed to ensuring justice is served under the law.

Investigators are urging any witnesses or individuals with information to come forward and assist with the investigation. Please note that no efforts will be spared.

In a separate statement, the Ministry of Home Affairs confirmed it has launched an urgent investigation into the assault, which has triggered outrage after clips were widely circulated across social media. The Ministry described the incident as a matter of “grave concern” and warned that sharing the video could further compromise the victim’s privacy and the ongoing investigation.

The Police Force is actively working to identify and reach the victim, while urging anyone with relevant information to contact the 4B Divisional Headquarters at Diamond, East Bank Demerara, or their nearest police station.

Authorities have stressed the importance of public cooperation in ensuring the victim’s rights are protected and that those responsible are brought to justice.

Further updates are expected as the probe continues.