Ali: Guyana security forces equipped to deal with Venezuela threat

Ali: Guyana security forces equipped to deal with Venezuela threat

July 2, 2025

Guyana's security forces have demonstrated their capability to handle the increasing threat posed by armed gangs from Venezuela, as evidenced by recent incidents along the Cuyuni River. The latest incident, where a joint services-led escort transporting ballot boxes and Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) officials came under fire, highlights the preparedness of Guyana's security forces to safeguard election-related operations.

On Sunday, September 1, 2025, a joint patrol vessel from the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and the Guyana Police Force was escorting GECOM officials and ballot boxes along the Upper Cuyuni River near the Guyana-Venezuela border. At approximately 14:30 hours, the patrol came under fire from the Venezuelan shore [1]. The escort team, comprising ranks from the GDF and the Guyana Police Force, successfully returned fire and maneuvered out of danger, ensuring no injuries and no damage to election materials [1].

This incident is part of a series of attacks by Venezuelan gangs in Guyana, including a February 2025 attack on GDF soldiers in the Eteringbang area of Cuyuni, Region 7 [1]. The recent incident underscores the heightened tensions between Guyana and Venezuela, particularly over the disputed Essequibo region, which makes up approximately two-thirds of Guyana's territory [2].

Guyana's security forces have been bolstered by the United States' deployment of a major naval presence in the Southern Caribbean, aimed at countering drug trafficking and supporting Guyana's sovereignty [2]. This deployment, which includes seven warships, a nuclear-powered submarine, and more than 4,500 service members, has not been officially linked to the border dispute but has expressed support for Guyana's territorial claims [2].

Despite these challenges, Guyana remains focused on conducting its elections on September 1, 2025. GECOM confirmed the safe delivery of all ballot boxes to remote polling stations in District 7, with no damage or delay [1]. The commission thanked the Joint Services for their operational support and reaffirmed that the incident would have no impact on the conduct of the elections.

The recent incidents highlight the need for continued vigilance and coordination between Guyana's security forces and GECOM. The Joint Services remain alert and are coordinating closely to ensure the security of all election-related operations [1]. An investigation into the latest incident is underway, with the aim of identifying those responsible and preventing future attacks.

In conclusion, Guyana's security forces have shown their ability to handle the threats posed by armed gangs from Venezuela, ensuring the successful conduct of elections despite ongoing tensions. The United States' naval deployment and Guyana's own preparedness provide a robust framework for managing these challenges.

References:
[1] https://kaieteurnewsonline.com/2025/09/01/venezuelan-gang-attacks-ballot-escort-in-cuyuni-river/
[2] https://bnonews.com/index.php/2025/08/guyana-says-patrol-came-under-fire-from-venezuela-no-injuries-reported/