The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has recommended criminal charges against two serving members of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) in connection with an ongoing investigation into the alleged abduction of Kevin Fiedtkou.
This update was provided on Tuesday, following a previous statement from Mark Ramotar, Head of the GPF Communication Unit, which suggested that video evidence had cleared police ranks of involvement in the incident.
The abduction of Fiedtkou, a 31-year-old Operations Supervisor at Aurora Gold Mining Inc., occurred on October 10 at approximately 12:30 hrs at the Giftland Mall.
Reports indicate that Fiedtkou was forcibly taken by three unidentified men and subsequently taken to his home in Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD), where he was coerced into surrendering $9.5 million.
Police reports confirm that Fiedtkou was unharmed during the ordeal, and the suspects made their escape following the exchange of money.
Previously authorities had issued a wanted bulletin for Okeemo Arak Brummell, a 29-year-old resident of Bel Air Springs, Georgetown.
He was not identified as any of the serving police ranks to be charged.
The much-anticipated trial concerning alleged election fraud during the March 2020 General and Regional elections is set to resume on Friday November 01, following a series of delays caused in part by the ill health of the presiding magistrate, Leron Daly.
Attorney General Anil Nandlall addressed the ongoing situation during his “Issues in the News” commentary Tuesday night, confirming that should Magistrate Daly remain unwell, a new magistrate will be appointed to oversee the case.
This change, however, will necessitate starting the trial anew.
“The last information we received indicated that Magistrate Daly is still unwell, which has contributed to the postponement of these important proceedings,” Nandlall explained.
He called for the judiciary to act decisively, urging the new magistrate to establish firm timelines for the trial’s progression.
Nandlall emphasised that, as per legal practice, the trial must commence afresh if a new magistrate is assigned.
He expressed hope that this fresh start would occur promptly, allowing for the trial to be conducted without further undue delay.
The trial had originally been slated to continue on October 31, but due to the public holiday for Diwali, it has been pushed back to November 01. If the situation remains unchanged, the judiciary will have to take immediate action to ensure the trial can advance efficiently.
On September 17 when Magistrate Daly was reported ill, the case was adjourned.
The acting Chief Magistrate, Faith McGusty, had indicated then that if Daly’s condition did not improve, alternative arrangements would need to be made for the continuation of the trial.
Attorney General Anil Nandlall has once again rejected repeated and “bizarre” allegations surrounding the integrity of the March 2020 elections in Guyana.
The claims, which have been repeatedly asserted over the past four years by Vincent Alexander, a prominent member of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R), suggest that ballots were cast for individuals who were absent on polling day.
During his Tuesday night ‘Issues in the News’, Nandlall articulated the implausibility of these assertions, stating, “It is impossible for a ballot to be cast in the name of someone who is not present.”
He explained that for a vote to count, a voter must not only be present at the polling station but must also provide valid identification, either an ID card or a passport with a photograph.
This process includes thorough checks by election officials and party agents, ensuring that each voter’s identity is verified against the official voters’ list.
He detailed that voters’ names are specific to their locality and that identification checks are conducted meticulously at polling stations, with election officials and party agents verifying each voter’s identity against official lists.
Nandlall further emphasised that any suggestion of fraudulent activity undermines the comprehensive oversight exercised during the electoral process.
He noted the presence of multiple observers, including international agencies such as the Commonwealth and the Organisation of American States, as well as local entities, all of whom monitored the elections closely.
Nandlall further emphasised that the claims of a “bloated list” and the need for biometric verification lack credible evidence.
Despite repeated assertions from Alexander regarding a “bloated list” of voters, Nandlall reminded that it was the same list used in the last two elections one that delivered victory to the PNC led APNU/AFC Coalition and another that was only rejected after the lost the 2020 elections.
“It is essential to reject these narratives, especially when they are not backed by any credible evidence,” Nandlall remarked
The Attorney General’s comments come amid heightened scrutiny over the electoral processes as the 2025 polls approach.
See below full release from the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC):
The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) wishes to inform the public that there are currently 25 unclaimed bodies at our mortuary. These bodies have remained unclaimed despite our efforts to locate the next of kin.
In accordance with our protocol, GPHC will proceed with the final disposition of these bodies if they remain unclaimed within the next 14 days. Family members or other individuals who may have a connection to any of the deceased are urged to come forward promptly.
For inquiries or to claim a body, please contact the GPHC Mortuary at 225-3359.
Foreign Secretary Mr. Robert Persaud, accompanied by senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, met with a visiting delegation from the United States Foreign Relations Committee.
The delegation comprised Senior Foreign Policy Advisor for Senator Tim Kaine, Mr. J.C. Jain, Senior Advisor on Western Hemisphere and International Law Enforcement Mr. Victor Cervino, and Deputy Staff Director for the Senate Foreign Relations Committee Mr. Andy Olson.
The delegation is currently in Guyana to garner a better understanding of Guyana- US bilateral relations through engagements with local authorities on investment, governance and security matters.
The Foreign Secretary provided an overview of the status of Guyana-US bilateral relations which have intensified over the past four to five years through active and structured engagements on all fronts of cooperation.
These include recent high- level visits between the two countries from both the government and commercial sectors, as well as the establishment of the Guyana- USA Strategic Dialogue held in July 2024. He noted that the US is Guyana’ s highest investor and a key trading partner in the Western Hemisphere.
The delegation comprised Senior Foreign Policy Advisor for Senator Tim Kaine, Mr. J.C. Jain, Senior Advisor on Western Hemisphere and International Law Enforcement Mr. Victor Cervino, and Deputy Staff Director for the Senate Foreign Relations Committee Mr. Andy Olson.
Guyana and the United States also collaborate closely within the United Nations Security Council on peace and security matters, including the establishment of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) in Haiti. The Foreign Secretary acknowledged and commended the United States’ support for Guyana’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
The US representatives assured of Congress’ bipartisan support for the US- Guyana bilateral relations. In this regard, the US undertakes a long- term collaborative approach to support Guyana’s development based on trust and mutual respect. The representatives underscored the importance of democratic institutions and legislation to counter money laundering and corruption, which are key to enhancing investment and commercial activities in the country. In addition to partnering with Guyana in these areas, the representatives affirmed the US’ commitment to working with countries in the region to enhance hemispheric security through information sharing, and enhanced interoperability and compatibility.
Both sides agreed to remain engaged and to work on future areas of cooperation which would seek to further enhance the Guyana- US bilateral relations.
After the successful hosting of the inaugural job fair in New York in July this year, the Government of Guyana is currently finalising plans to host its second diaspora job fair in Suriname.
This event is slated for Saturday November 2nd in Nickerie, where the vast majority of the diaspora has settled over the decades.
The second job fair will once again see the collaboration between the Government of Guyana and the Private Sector to host several companies in Nickerie interested in tapping into the diaspora to fill critical labour gaps in Guyana. Most notably, businesses in the Berbice region will be involved in the event.
Supplementing the job fair will be major government ministries who will present various transformative projects undertaken by the Government and how the diaspora can take up opportunities in the public sector created as a result of these projects. The construction of 6 new hospitals, for example, will require various skills to fill numerous jobs to be created as a result.
As a result of requests emanating from the diaspora, supporting agencies such as the Central Immigration and Passport Office, General Registrar Office, the Board of Industrial Training and the National Insurance Scheme, are among agencies who will be offering their services and provide information at the event.
Foreign Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mr. Robert Persaud reiterated, “This second job fair represents a pivotal moment for our nation as we seek to harness the skills and expertise of our diaspora community. It is very clear to all that Guyana’s unprecedented growth is posing a massive challenge to fill the labour gaps as quickly as they are being created. That is why the government is keen on encouraging our Guyanese diaspora to understand the development taking place, the opportunities created as a result and return to grasp those opportunities.
Whether they are considering returning to Guyana or seeking to make a meaningful impact from abroad, the Diaspora Job Fair promises to be an invaluable networking and career advancement opportunity.”
As was the case in the inaugural job fair, this event, marks a crucial initiative aimed at showcasing career opportunities across various industries. It underscores its importance as a pivotal platform for connecting returning Guyanese with prospective employers.
The job fair, a commitment by His Excellency President Dr. Mohamed Ali following his recent meeting with the Guyanese diaspora, aims to harness the skills and expertise of Guyana’s diaspora community.
Attendees can anticipate direct engagement with representatives from leading companies, government agencies, and non-profit organizations, all offering a diverse range of employment opportunities and valuable insights into the remigration process. The event will include informative sessions on investment opportunities, housing options, and educational resources available to returning citizens. Representatives of over 20 companies from several sectors, 7 ministries and agencies and 4 chambers of commerce will be participating.
For more information about the Diaspora Job Fair, Guyanese in Suriname are asked to contact the Guyana Embassy in Paramaribo and the Guyana Consulate in Nickerie. The event is open to the public from 12pm to 4pm (Press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International cooperation)
Windward Volcanoes edged a sloppy Guyana Harpy Eagles for a stunning come-from-behind victory in their opening match of the Regional Super50 at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Trinidad and Tobago.
In pursuit of 275 for victory, the Volcanoes were 58-5 in 11.4 overs, and the writing was on the wall for a crushing defeat.
But it was not the case.
Battling the heavy dew, the Eagles dropped catches and made constant misfields, helping the Volcanoes recover to 139-6.
Shadrack Descarte and Dillon Douglas made a brilliant stand of 81.
Descrate was dismissed for 60 (7x4s:1×6) from 62, while the wicketkeeper-batsman, Douglas, in just his second List A, fell painstakingly short of a well-deserved century.
Douglas was crestfallen, run out for 90 (8x4s; 2x6s) from 100 balls, but his innings proved the pillar to a stunning victory.
Shadrack Descarte (left) and Dillon Douglas made a brilliant stand of 81
Nial Smith, who got the new ball moving, picked up 3-46 but could not complete his ten overs after leaving the field due to suspected cramps.
However, the bowlers chipped away at the score until the last over.
The Volcanoes became the first team to chase 250 or more at BLCA and defeated the Eagles for the first time at BLCA.
Half-centuries from skipper Tevin Imlach and Keemo Paul earlier led the late charge for the Eagles.
Imlach was unbeaten on 65 (5x4s; 1×6) from 67 balls, and Paul blasted his way to 54* (1×4; 6x6s) from 29 balls.
Tagnarine Chanderpaul (49 from 81 balls) and Matthew Nandu (34 from 61 balls) laid a solid foundation for the Eagles, while Kevlon Anderson brought some impetus with 42 (2x4s; 2x6s) from 39 balls.
Tevin Imlach (left) and Keemo Paul
Harpy Eagles secured two batting bonus points for scoring over 80 runs in the last ten overs and for a batsman batting six or lower who gets fifty under 40 balls.
In his post-match comments, Imlach stated, “We were a bit lackadaisical…after we got the first five wickets, we were a bit laid back.”
Eagles are back in action on Thursday against Combined Campuses and Colleges at UWI Spec from 09:00h.
See below the full release from the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha:
Tomorrow (Wednesday) the night sky will be illuminated by the lights of the majestic Diwali Motorcade as it leaves the Shri Krishna Mandir, C/Ville at 6:30PM for the LBI Community Center Ground for a fabulous cultural programme at 7:30PM.
On the occasion of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha’s 50th Anniversary, the motorcade will feature over 40 floats from across Guyana with hundreds of youth depicting the various manifestations of God. These exquisite creations will warm the hearts of the thousands who throng the roads to view the beautiful and iconic motorcade.
Guyana is the proud home of the Diwali Motorcade which is unifying and brings thousands of people from all walks of life together in a spirit of joy and fraternity.
Headlining the cultural programme at the LBI ground out of India is Nachiket Lele of Indian Idol Fame, Ben Parag and Vishale Samlall along with Bunty Singh, Suraj Singh, Rekha Ranglall, Sookrane Boodhoo, Elizabeth Wong of Guyana and Kaitlin Sultan of Trinidad and Tobago, with dances by Dharmic Nritya Sangh and Berbice Delights. They will be backed by music by the Shakti Strings Band.
Admission is free, no alcohol is allowed. Persons attending can also enjoy lots to eat and drink and Diwali shopping.
West Indies have named a 15-man squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against England.
The series, which gets underway on October 31st at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, will be followed by a five-match T20I series.
The squad sees the return of Shimron Hetmyer, replacing Alick Athanaze.
Head coach Daren Sammy expressed his excitement about the series, stating, “Playing against England always provides a new challenge and reignites a rivalry that the players and the people of the Caribbean are eager for.”
The West Indies squad will be looking to build on their recent success against England and continue their development as a team.
Sewdat Persaud, an aquaculture farmer and businessman, grew up around his father’s modest fish farm. It was a venture his father made a living from, as he supplied locals with seafood.
Persaud, now the Secretary of the Aquaculture Cooperative Society, followed his father’s footsteps but expanded operations significantly, getting much more involved in the brackish- water shrimp business.
“After I took over, we expanded the farms and started by targeting local markets, later branching out to the diaspora,” Persaud explains.
Through persistent advocacy, the cooperative brought the sector’s potential to the attention of key government figures, including President Dr. Irfaan Ali, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, and several ministers.
Brackish- water shrimp farming
These efforts paid off, he said, as government intervention has been pivotal in driving the sector’s growth.
Generally, aquaculture in East Berbice, specifically, has experienced remarkable growth over the past few years, transforming into a booming industry.
The number of fish ponds alone has surged from just 40 to over 150, a clear indicator of the thriving state of aquaculture in the region.
The revival of brackish-water shrimp farming, an industry that began over 40 years ago but had dwindled by 2020, is a huge part of the aquaculture sector’s expansion.
Farmer, Sewdat Persaud
In 2020, Persaud said monthly shrimp production had stagnated at around 30,000 to 35,000 kilogrammes.
However, the government intervention in 2021 breathed new life into the industry. Today, shrimp production exceeds 100,000 kilograms per month, a dramatic increase leading to profound economic benefits for farmers.
Persaud highlighted the change in his operation.
“I used to get 15-20 buckets per month. Now, I receive 45-60 buckets, sometimes valued up to $50,000 per bucket, though it’s currently around $40,000,” the farmer highlighted.
This sharp rise in production is largely driven by increasing demand from members of the diaspora, who now play a key role in the supply chain.
Brackish- water shrimp farming
The Ministry of Agriculture, through the Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC), also played a crucial role in this resurgence. Though initial government support was necessary, many farmers now export to the diaspora independently.
The value of this sector isn’t unknown.
A total of 815,496 kilogrammes of shrimp were produced between January to November 2023. This was a 49 per cent increase compared to the 548,900 kilogrammes produced over the same period in 2022.
And in 2023, up to November, the shrimp raked in about $1.3 billion.
Aquaculture and brackish-water shrimp farming has been significant enough to encourage substantial investments in 2024.
In the first half of 2024, according to the Ministry of Finance’s Mid-year report, $157.2 million was spent to advance Guyana’s fishing sector. Included in that sum is an investment in 83 acres of ponds for the brackish-water shrimps.
In the second half of the year, the report noted that 205 acres of ponds will be established for both brackish-water shrimp and vannamei.
Additional ponds are expected to increase production.
The government is also investing in improving the infrastructure necessary to sustain shrimp farming. Drainage and irrigation have been prioritised, with major canal projects, such as the re-digging of the canal from Belvedere to Albion, ensuring better water management for shrimp farms.
Four new sluices have also been constructed to regulate water flow, and many farmers are benefiting from polytube irrigation, further optimising their operations.
Training has been another critical factor in the industry’s success. Through collaborations with the Fisheries Department and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), farmers have shifted from extensive to semi-intensive farming systems.
Wazim Baux, a farmer from Kilcoy Dam
Wazim Baux, a farmer from Kilcoy Dam, East Berbice, Corentyne attests to the impact of government intervention on his livelihood.
“Since the government intervention, we have more land, more harvesting space. We get new channels on the sea dam to bring in shrimp, so we can extend and employ more people. This has been very fruitful for us,’ he said.
Baux currently manages 16 acres of pond space, employs two workers, and is optimistic about the future of shrimp farming.
Like Persaud and Baux, other farmers across the ancient country are banking on the tiny animals for success.
More than 90 shrimp ponds have been established, benefiting over 40 farmers across various areas, including Kilcoy, Chesney, Albion and Fyrish.
It is believed that there remain untapped opportunities in areas such as Alness, Manchester, and Tarlogie where the local culture is less familiar with shrimp farming. Stakeholders are exploring how to get more persons involved in the aquaculture business.
For their part, Persaud and Baux are firm believers in the venture. They hope more Berbicians will capitalise on the ongoing expansion of the sector.
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Shadrack Descarte (left) and Dillon Douglas made a brilliant stand of 81 and Keemo Paul </p>
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Wazim Baux, a farmer from Kilcoy Dam