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Guyana’s top rider, Matthew Vieira, is set to face a strong challenge from 19-year-old American Dylan Singh in the Superbike A Class at the opening round of the GMRSC Circuit Championship this Sunday.

The event at the South Dakota Circuit is highly anticipated, with Singh bringing significant experience to the competition.

Singh, originally from New Jersey, developed his racing skills at the well-known New Jersey Motorsports Park throughout his junior career. His racing resume includes multiple appearances in CCS/ASRA events as an Expert and a season in the MotoAmerica Junior Cup on a Kawasaki ZX-4.

Singh has now brought his talents to Guyana, where he aims to challenge for the A Class Championship on a machine similar to his U.S. setup.

However, he faces a formidable opponent in Matthew Vieira, who is widely regarded as the best rider in Guyana and the Caribbean. Vieira boasts multiple championships and has consistently demonstrated his dominance in the region with his expert racecraft and focus.

Vieira is aware of the attention surrounding the matchup but remains confident. “I know the target is on my back,” Vieira said. “Singh came in November 2023 with a lot of hype, and he didn’t trouble me then. I’m confident I’ll come out on top again this Sunday.”

Singh has expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity to compete in Guyana. “I’m just happy to be riding in Guyana on my machine,” Singh shared. “Racing requires a lot of concentration, so I’ll avoid distractions and focus on finishing first.”

Vieira, however, remains the man to beat. “If I’m running first, then that’s the man to beat,” he stated, underlining his status as the rider to watch.

The stage is set for an exciting showdown this Sunday at the South Dakota Circuit.

The post Singh and Vieira set for Superbike showdown appeared first on News Room Guyana.

A third expert pathologist has now joined the team assigned to the much-anticipated autopsy of 11-year-old Adrianna Younge.

Dr Glenn A. Rudner, a distinguished forensic pathologist from the renowned Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, will arrive in Guyana on Sunday evening to join the team.

Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony confirmed the development, noting Dr Rudner’s credentials have already been submitted to the Guyana Medical Council, which granted him a temporary licence to practice locally.

Dr Rudner brings over two decades of experience in forensic pathology. He holds a medical degree and two prior science degrees from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. He is a diplomate of both the United States Medical Licensing Examination and the American Board of Pathology, certified in both Anatomic and Forensic Pathology. His professional medical licence is registered in New York under MD 246708.

Dr Rudner joins two other forensic experts already involved in the case: Dr Shubhakar Karra Paul, the government-appointed international pathologist from Barbados, and Dr Gary L. Collins, Chief Medical Examiner for the State of Delaware, who was chosen by Adrianna Younge’s family to represent their interests.

Dr Paul, who arrived in Guyana last Thursday, was initially expected to perform the autopsy. However, following his arrival, the Younge family requested that their own independent expert also be present. This led to a postponement of the autopsy, originally scheduled for Friday morning.

11-year-old Adrianna Younge, whose tragic death has sparked national outrage and demands for justice across Guyana

READ ALSO: Adrianna Younge’s autopsy delayed as family wants their own independent Pathologist

Dr Collins, the family’s choice, is a highly respected forensic pathologist with degrees from the University of the West Indies and multiple board certifications in Forensic, Anatomic, and Clinical Pathology. He currently serves as Chief Medical Examiner in Delaware and is fully licensed in several jurisdictions, including Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Delaware, and Pennsylvania.

According to Attorney Darren Wade, who represents the Younge family, documentation for Dr Collins’ temporary accreditation was submitted to the Guyana Medical Council on Saturday night. His approval is pending but expected before the autopsy proceeds on Monday.

In a meeting with President Irfaan Ali on Thursday, the family and state officials reached an agreement: while the autopsy remains a state function, the family’s pathologist would be allowed to observe the process to ensure transparency and independent oversight.

President Ali, acknowledging the sensitivity of the case, reiterated that while Guyana has competent national pathologists, the involvement of external experts is important under the circumstances. “The family’s pathologist is to ensure they have full representation,” the President stated.

As preparations continue for Monday’s autopsy, Dr Collins has already requested that preliminary imaging be conducted before his arrival. These include a full skeletal survey — X-rays of Adrianna’s entire body to detect any fractures — and a full-body CT scan to identify internal injuries or abnormalities.

Dr Paul, meanwhile, is no stranger to high-profile forensic work in Guyana. He previously assisted with the identification of victims from the tragic Mahdia Secondary School dormitory fire in 2023. A graduate of Karnatak University with further specialisation from Manipal University and the National Board in New Delhi, Dr Paul is also a member of the Faculty of Forensic & Legal Medicine at the Royal College of Physicians in the UK.

With three certified forensic experts now involved, speculation is mounting over who will actually lead the post-mortem. What is clear is that the presence of multiple observers is intended to ensure the process is carried out with the utmost integrity and impartiality.

The autopsy is set to proceed on Monday.

The post Third int’l pathologist joins Adrianna Younge’s autopsy team appeared first on News Room Guyana.

The Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) faces an ongoing uphill battle to restore its senior men’s national team, the once-feared ‘Green Machine’, to its former glory.

While glimpses of the talent that earned them regional dominance still flicker, a heavy 48-17 defeat at the hands of the Cayman Islands on Saturday at the National Park serves as a stark reminder of the work that remains.

This latest setback follows a disappointing 26-3 loss to Trinidad and Tobago last June, painting a concerning picture for Guyanese rugby fans.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali also witnessed the match and greeted both teams before the encounter as he pledged further support for Guyana’s rugby.

Against the Cayman Islands, the visitors asserted their authority from the opening whistle, leaving the ‘Green Machine’ chasing shadows for much of the contest.

Cayman Islands opened the scoring in the ninth minute when Doran Bryce crossed the try line, though Alexander Claybourn’s conversion attempt went wide.

The early score set the tone for the first half, with the Caymanian side building relentless pressure. Their efforts were rewarded in the 15th minute as Zachary Brooks powered over for another try, this time successfully converted by Claybourn.

The first half continued in a similar vein, with the Cayman Islands dictating play and racking up points, leaving Guyana reeling at 31-3 by halftime.

However, the second half offered a glimmer of hope for the home supporters. With the game seemingly beyond their grasp, a newfound fluency.

Frustration for the Green Machine

Fullback Tyrese Prescod became the focal point of their attacking endeavors, showcasing individual brilliance that translated into a genuine attacking threat.

Prescod managed to breach the Caymanian defense on two occasions, scoring tries, and added a successful conversion to his tally.

Despite Prescod’s impressive performance, the significant first-half deficit proved insurmountable as the Cayman Islands continued to add to their score.

Looking ahead, Guyana will be eager to turn the tide when they travel to face Barbados on May 17th.

This upcoming fixture holds significant weight as teams jostle for crucial rankings within Rugby Americas North.

The post Rugby: Cayman Islands consign Guyana to 48-17 defeat appeared first on News Room Guyana.

In a decisive move, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) announced Saturday that all missing person reports will now be acted upon immediately—scrapping the long-criticised 24-hour waiting period.

The Office of the Commissioner of Police has formally implemented a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) aimed at streamlining and strengthening the national response to reports of missing children and persons. The directive applies across all police divisions, stations, outposts, and the Missing Children/Persons Unit (MCPU).

This reform reflects global best practices and a human-rights-centred approach, with special attention to vulnerable groups including children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities.

Among the core provisions of the SOP:

• Immediate Response: All reports of missing persons must be acted upon without delay. No mandatory 24-hour waiting period is required.
• Red Alert Activation: Reports involving missing children will trigger an immediate Red Alert, prompting a coordinated national response.
• High-Risk Classification: Children, elderly persons, and individuals deemed vulnerable will be automatically categorised as high-risk, resulting in rapid deployment of additional resources.
• Interagency Collaboration: The Police Force will work in close coordination with the Child Care and Protection Agency, Immigration Department, healthcare providers, shelters, and other key partners to deliver a holistic and effective response.
• Public Communication: The Corporate Communications Unit (CCU) will release timely and accurate information to the public regarding missing persons, once cleared by the Commissioner’s Office.
• Senior Oversight: Divisional Commanders and the MCPU will be tasked with daily oversight and continuous updates on active cases until each is resolved.

The Commissioner of Police will also ensure that heads of all related security and emergency services — including Defence, Fire, and Prisons — are immediately notified in incidents involving children or other high-risk individuals.

Officers who fail to follow the SOP without valid justification will face administrative review and possible disciplinary action under the Police (Discipline) Act, Chapter 17:01.

This renewed commitment by the GPF reaffirms its pledge to protect all citizens, particularly the most vulnerable, with urgency, compassion, and accountability. Members of the public are encouraged to report missing persons promptly and to provide any relevant information that could aid in their safe recovery.

The post No 24-hour waiting period for missing person reports – Top Cop appeared first on News Room Guyana.

The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) has publicly declared its full support for players Veerasammy Permaul and Kevlon Anderson, who are pursuing legal action in the High Court of Guyana to clear their names following a controversial incident during a recent Cricket West Indies (CWI) Regional 4-Day Tournament match.

SEE PRESS RELEASE FROM GUYANA CRICKET BOARD: 

Veerasammy Permaul And Kevlon Anderson Denies Ball-Tampering Charges

– Approaches High Court of Guyana To Clear Their Names

The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) wishes to publicly express its full support for players Veerasammy Permaul and Kevlon Anderson, who have approached the High Court of Guyana in a bid to clear their names following a controversial incident during the recent Cricket West Indies (CWI) Regional 4-Day Tournament fixture between Guyana and Trinidad & Tobago played at the Queens Park Oval in Trinidad.

The match, which effectively served as the tournament final, was of great significance, with the championship title at stake. However, events on and off the field have cast a cloud over what should have been a celebration of West Indies cricket at its highest domestic level.

Both Permaul and Anderson were charged under the CWI Code of Conduct and, based on the documents filed in the High Court, were allegedly pressured into accepting a guilty plea by the Trinidadian Match Referee, Mr. Michael Ragoonath. They were reportedly given two options:

1. Plead guilty and accept a fine.
2. Insist on a hearing / trial and the Referee will impose a fine of 100% of the match fee and a ban.

Faced with this representation from the Referee, the two players formed the opinion that they had no choice but to plead guilty to the charge, despite previously submitting written denial to the Referee, and in the case of Permaul, maintaining his innocence at the hearing. Anderson was not afforded a hearing.

This lack of due process and the absence of a fair and transparent hearing is deeply troubling. The GCB considers the actions of the match officials (which includes the on-field umpires) to be unprofessional, unethical, and a serious breach of procedural fairness.

The Guyana Cricket Board is profoundly disappointed by the handling of this matter in Trinidad and expected a much higher standard of governance, particularly in CWI’s premier domestic tournaments.

In light of these events, both players have taken the bold and commendable step of seeking justice through the High Court, aiming to restore their reputations and ensure such incidents do not recur.

The GCB stands firmly in support of justice, fair play, and the rights of its players, and will continue to advocate for good governance, transparency and accountability at all levels of the sport.

This application was filed by Attorney-at-law Arudranauth Gossai.”

The post Backed by GCB, Anderson and Permaul head to court to clear ball-tampering charges appeared first on News Room Guyana.

President Dr Irfaan Ali has reaffirmed his commitment to full transparency and impartiality in the ongoing investigation into the death of 11-year-old Adrianna Younge, assuring her grieving family that all their requests surrounding her autopsy will be fully respected.

On Saturday, President Ali paid a second visit to the family – including Adrianna’s mother, aunt, and grandmother – offering his condolences and engaging them in a heartfelt discussion. He reiterated the government’s commitment to justice and promised that independent professionals would be involved.

The family has consistently called for an independent pathologist to carry out the post-mortem examination. President Ali made it clear that there is “absolutely no issue” with such a request. He assured them that he personally supports the pursuit of truth and that the government is committed to facilitating an impartial process.

“All of us want the truth, and that is the only thing I’m interested in,” the President told the family. “This is being handled with the utmost respect and transparency.”

He added that the family’s lawyer submitted a letter with specific requests regarding the pathologist and medical oversight. That letter has since been forwarded to the Chief Medical Officer, who will make contact with the independent expert selected by the family.

“Everything will be recorded and properly observed – there will be no missteps,” President Ali stated. “As many witnesses as the family deems medically permissible will be accommodated. Every request surrounding the post-mortem will be honoured as far as possible.”

In an earlier statement, the Guyana Police Force confirmed that the Younge family has selected an independent pathologist, who is expected to arrive in Guyana on Sunday, April 27. The post-mortem examination is likely to be conducted on Monday in the presence of both the independent pathologist and the police-appointed medical examiner.

The Guyana Police Force has pledged to provide regular updates as the investigation continues.

When contacted by the News Room, the family’s attorney, Darren Wade, declined to disclose the name of the independent pathologist but confirmed preparations are underway for the autopsy on Monday.

The post All of Adrianna Younge’s autopsy requests will be honoured – President affirms appeared first on News Room Guyana.

Marking a significant milestone in the transformation of healthcare delivery in Guyana’s hinterland, the Ministry of Health, Honourable Dr Frank Anthony on Friday officially commissioned the new Annai District Hospital in the Upper Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).

The hospital is now fully equipped and staffed to deliver a comprehensive range of medical services, including outpatient care, inpatient services, accident and emergency treatment, maternal and child health, non-communicable disease management, laboratory and diagnostic testing, pharmacy services, general surgery, internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, dental care, and radiology services (X-ray and ultrasound).

The ribbon cutting to open the facility that will upgrade healthcare infrastructure throughout Region Nine. (Photo: Ministry of Health)

During a community ceremony. Dr Anthony emphasised the government’s commitment to ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare across the nation.

“Today is a day of celebration,” Minister Anthony stated. “What began as a modest health centre has now evolved into a full-fledged district hospital—equipped with a state-of-the-art surgical theatre, enhanced laboratory services, advanced imaging technologies, and modern staff accommodations.”

The new hospital houses cutting-edge diagnostic tools. (Photo: Ministry of Health)

The facility, representing a $236 million investment, forms part of a broader $450 million regional initiative to upgrade healthcare infrastructure throughout Region Nine. This includes the provision of four new ambulances and several all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) to boost emergency medical response in remote areas.

Additional developments across the region include the deployment of cutting-edge diagnostic tools. These feature a new digital x-ray system and a mammography unit at Lethem Hospital, as well as AI-assisted malaria detection technology introduced in collaboration with Harvard University.

“These advancements mean residents no longer have to cross borders in search of healthcare,” Dr. Anthony said. “We are now seeing patients coming to us because the quality of care in Region Nine has significantly improved.”

This facility will respond to the medical needs of the region. (Photo: Ministry of Health)

The Ministry also used the occasion to encourage greater participation in the nationwide Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign, now expanded to include women up to age 45. The initiative is a key part of the government’s strategy to reduce cervical cancer, the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in Guyana.

”Progress is not just a concept—it’s action,” Dr. Anthony concluded. “We are not only talking about transformation; we are delivering it.”

Also present at the recommissioning were Dr Cerdel Mc Watt, Regional Health Officer (RHO); Bryan Allicock, Regional Chairman and Mr Micheal Gouveia, Hinterland Coordinator, Regional Health Services.

The post New Annai District Hospital Commissioned appeared first on News Room Guyana.

The post Commander Mandall sent on leave, three ranks under close arrest as probe into death of Adrianna Younge continues appeared first on News Room Guyana.

See below the full statement issued by the Office of the Police Commissioner – Clifton Hicken:

The Guyana Police Force wishes to update the public that the probe continues in relation to the circumstances surrounding the death of Adriana Younge.

Thus far, the investigators have contacted and questioned a number of individuals, including the proprietor of Double Day Hotel and Bar and his employees. A number of police ranks of Regional Division #3 were also questioned.

Additionally, a security guard attached to the hotel, along with a swimming instructor, was interviewed by detectives.

At this juncture, the investigators are still interviewing persons who can assist with the investigations.

It is significant to note that the Guyana Police Force is also awaiting the arrival of another independent pathologist who was identified by family members of the deceased to perform the post-mortem examination.

The post-mortem examination is an important aspect of the investigation in order to confirm the cause of death of Adriana Younge.

Finally, an administrative decision was taken on today’s date (Friday, April 25, 2025) to reassign Assistant Commissioner, Commander of Regional Division #3, Mr. Khalid Mandall to Regional Division #4B. Assistant Commissioner, Mr. Mahindra Siewnarine has been posted to Regional Division #3 as Commander.

Guyana Police Force will provide updates as the investigations unfold.

The post Police Commissioner breaks silence on probe into death of Adrianna Younge appeared first on News Room Guyana.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali has reiterated that every available resource is being directed to uncover the truth surrounding the death of 11-year-old Adrianna Younge. However, he said that acts of looting and destruction will not be condoned.

In an invited comment, President Ali said:

“Let me be unequivocally clear — every emphasis and resource in finding out the truth surrounding the death of 11-year-old Adrianna Younge is being made available and is our foremost priority”

‘This One Will Not Slide’ – Guyanese united as a nation demanding answers

While acknowledging the public’s right to express grief and demand justice, the President warned against lawlessness:

“However, looting and destruction of private and public property and infrastructure will not be tolerated. This behaviour will not be encouraged. Anyone found in breach of the law will face consequences.”

The ongoing protests, which began on Thursday and continue outside the Leonora Police Station, have disrupted public order and blocked major roadways, affecting the free movement of people. On Thursday, tensions escalated with the burning of debris on the roads, and there were reports of looting and damage to a hotel and the private residence of its owner.

UPDATE: Family of Adrianna Younge wants FBI or other int’l law enforcement body to probe girl’s death

The government continues to urge all citizens to allow the investigative process to proceed, assuring the public that justice and transparency remain central to the administration’s response.

The post Every emphasis & resource being directed to uncover truth, but looting & destruction cannot be tolerated — President Ali appeared first on News Room Guyana.