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A man from West Berbice has been sentenced to seven years and seven months for stealing from his former employer.

On Friday, Justice Deborah Kumar-Chetty handed down the sentence to Hemraj Singh Pahalad, who worked as a clerk for Ramdial Ramoutar.

The court heard that between February 12 and 16, 2013, Pahalad fraudulently took over three and a half million dollars from his employer’s business, claiming it was for the accounts of Sahidrul Satar. He also embezzled an additional three million from Karamdeo Mangru.

During that same period, Pahalad was accused of stealing a large amount of flour—200 bags of Thunderbolt flour, 515 bags of 2kg flour, 311 bags of 1kg flour, and several bags of other types of flour, totaling over $10 million in value, all belonging to Ramdial Ramoutar.

When he appeared in court, Pahalad pleaded not guilty, which led to a trial where a jury ultimately found him guilty of embezzlement and larceny.

In determining his sentence, Justice Kumar-Chetty highlighted the seriousness of the breach of trust involved. She pointed out that Pahalad held a position of confidence, having access to the flour bond and being responsible for depositing cash and cheques at the bank. His employer had placed significant trust in him, even naming him on a joint bank account. Instead of honoring that trust, Pahalad chose to abuse his position for personal gain.

 

The court also noted that during police questioning, Pahalad admitted to stealing the flour and the money, showing a lack of remorse even when he knew he was under investigation. The judge mentioned that he had the chance to repay the stolen amounts but chose not to.

The complainant mentioned that the crime did not just affect him directly; it also impacted his family members who live abroad. They had to adjust their living arrangements to help cope with the losses.

The court acknowledged that embezzlement has a harmful effect on the economy and can shake public trust in business activities.

After weighing several factors, the court handed down a five-year prison sentence for the embezzlement.

However, as a mitigating factor, the court noted that Pahalad had no previous convictions since this was his first offense.

They reduced the initial sentence by two years. The court also took into account a 13-year delay in prosecution without any explanation and decided to decrease the sentence by an additional five months.

In the end, Pahalad received a two-year prison term for the embezzlement charge, with the court ordering that the time he spent in remand be deducted from his sentence.

When looking at the seriousness of the larceny charge, the court considered the value of the stolen goods.

They set the starting point for the larceny sentence at seven years but then reduced it by two years. Pahalad was ultimately sentenced to five years for larceny.

Justice Kumar-Chetty stated that the sentences would run concurrently since they were part of a single act of dishonesty by Pahalad.

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Read full statement from RECOVER Guyana here:

On May 23, 2026, ExxonMobil Guyana hosted an in-person capacity building session for the Top 20 national finalists of SHOUT4Change. SHOUT, now in its fourth iteration, is Guyana’s national environmental speech competition, and is implemented by Recover Guyana, in partnership with the Ministry of Education, with support from ExxonMobil Guyana.

The immersive session formed a key component of the competition’s developmental programme, aimed at strengthening participants’ understanding of environmental sustainability, conservation efforts, and the role of industry in shaping Guyana’s low-carbon future.

The day began with an operational update, provided by ExxonMobil Guyana’s team. Finalists gained valuable insight into the company’s activities, with particular emphasis on environmental management and sustainability practices.

Representatives from the Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation and Development then delivered a comprehensive presentation on the Guyana Conservation Initiative (GCI) its alignment with Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030. GCI, a multi-year grant provided by the ExxonMobil Fondation, supports awareness on marine and conservation issues, ecosystem restoration, livelihood initiatives, and community support in coastal and hinterland regions.

As part of the experiential learning activities, finalists later participated in a guided tour of the Mangrove Information Centre. This segment provided practical insight into the importance of mangroves in coastal defense, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience. The programme concluded with a visit to the Turkeyen Seawall Mural, where participants explored how environmental awareness can be effectively communicated through public art and community engagement.

The SHOUT National Environmental Speech Competition continues to empower young voices across Guyana, equipping participants with the knowledge and confidence to advocate for a more sustainable future, with ExxonMobil Guyana Limited as a key partner over the years.

End

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Police are investigating a shooting incident in Kildonan Village, Corentyne, Berbice, which left a 59-year-old man nursing gunshot injuries on Thursday afternoon.

According to investigators, ranks responded to reports of alleged threatening behaviour around 3:00pm and attempted to arrest the man, a ten-day worker from Alness Village.

Police allege the man was armed with a cutlass and rushed towards one of the officers in a threatening manner during the confrontation.

During the incident, a rank discharged a single round from his service firearm, striking the man to his right knee and left foot.

The injured man was taken to the Port Mourant Public Hospital, where he remains in a stable condition receiving medical treatment.

Investigators processed the scene and recovered the cutlass. Statements are currently being taken as investigations continue.

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Police are investigating the murder of 55-year-old SurujDai Kahriu, called “Sharda,” whose body was discovered Thursday evening at her home in Cornelia Ida, West Coast Demerara.

Investigators said the woman, who worked as a supervisor, lived at the residence with her two sons.

According to preliminary reports, one of the sons returned home sometime between 4:25pm and 10:40pm and discovered his mother motionless inside the house.

Police said the woman’s other son, a 24-year-old construction worker, was reportedly seen inside the home and was later arrested and taken into custody.

Ranks who processed the scene observed marks of violence on the woman’s body.

Her remains were later transported to the Ezekiel Funeral Home, where a post-mortem examination is expected to be conducted.

Police also noted that CCTV cameras in the area are expected to form part of the ongoing investigation.

The suspect remains in custody as investigations continue.

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Police and Customs officials are investigating after a quantity of raw gold was discovered in the luggage of an outgoing passenger at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport Thursday morning.

Authorities said the discovery was made around 2:45am during routine screening procedures at the airport.

The gold was reportedly found in the luggage of a 48-year-old pilot and Guyanese-born Canadian citizen who was preparing to board a flight destined for Toronto, Canada.

According to investigators, the man was asked whether he possessed a licence to export gold, but reportedly indicated that he did not.

He was subsequently detained as authorities continued their investigations.

The suspected raw gold was weighed in the man’s presence and amounted to 0.563 ounces before being secured by officials.

Police said the material has since been sent for testing as investigations continue.

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The government on Thursday evening welcomed the opening of Spice Route Restaurant and Bar, describing the investment as another positive sign of confidence in Guyana’s growing tourism and hospitality sector.

The Indian themed restaurant and bar, located on Crown Street, Queenstown, Georgetown, is expected to officially open to the public on May 30 2026.

Speaking at the grand opening ceremony and delivering the feature address on behalf of President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali on Thursday evening, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues, remarked that the addition of the new restaurants and hospitality ventures continues to strengthen Guyana’s tourism product and diversify the country’s economy.

She noted that more investors are showing confidence in Guyana’s economic future as the country continues to experience rapid growth and increased international interest.

“More and more people are coming to Guyana and investing in Guyana. This is the confidence that is being exhibited when people launch new business ventures here in Guyana,” the minister stated.

Minister Rodrigues said restaurants play an important role in shaping visitors’ experiences, adding that dining establishments offer more than just meals.

“A restaurant is a place that provides more than just a great meal. It provides experiences, it makes connections, and people create memories in these spaces,” she said.

The tourism minister also highlighted Guyana’s rich cultural diversity and evolving culinary landscape, noting that both locals and visitors are increasingly embracing authentic Guyanese cuisine and international flavours.

She explained that travellers are now seeking cultural and culinary experiences, making restaurants an important part of the country’s tourism appeal.

Meanwhile, proprietor Manoj Venkatesan said Spice Route aims to introduce Guyanese to a wider variety of authentic Indian cuisine from different regions of India.

According to Venkatesan, the restaurant offers between 150 and 200 dishes, including both North and South Indian cuisine prepared by a specialised kitchen team.

“We are offering exclusive Indian cuisine from different parts of India. We wanted to bring something new and different for Guyanese to experience,” he explained.

He said the restaurant also features a vintage Indian-inspired theme designed to reflect India’s heritage and culture, with décor and furnishings crafted and imported from India over six months.

Among the restaurant’s signature dishes is venison vindaloo, which Venkatesan described as a unique fusion of Indian flavours using local ingredients.

The proprietor, who has been living in Guyana for the past seven years and working within the hospitality industry, said Guyana’s rapid economic growth and expanding tourism sector encouraged him to invest in the country.

He also expressed confidence that Guyanese would embrace the new culinary experience being offered at Spice Route.

The grand opening ceremony featured cultural performances and was attended by government officials, members of the diplomatic community, business representatives and guests.

(Department of Public Information)

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The United Women for Special Children has condemned the alleged mistreatment of students at the David Rose Special Education Needs School, describing children with special needs as among the most vulnerable members of society.

In a statement responding to the circulation of a video and allegations of abuse, the organization said every child deserves dignity, care and protection, while welcoming the Ministry of Education’s decision to launch an investigation.

The group warned that the incident highlights the urgent need for stronger safeguards, training and oversight within the education system, particularly for children with special needs.

The organization also said Guyana has made progress in advancing awareness and support for children with disabilities, but incidents like these risk undermining those gains.

United Women for Special Children says it remains committed to supporting affected families and working with authorities to promote safer and more inclusive learning environments.

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A father is looking for answers after his son was burned on his face and shoulder at the Port Mourant Apprentices hostel last Friday.

Eighteen-year-old Trimol Noble from Fyrish Village, Corentyne Berbice, moved into the hostel in August 2025 to join a one-year sugar boiler program.

On May 22, 2026, around midnight, Trimol said he woke up to a burning sensation on his face. Concerned, he turned on the light in his room and saw that his bed, clothes, and the floor were all wet.

After noticing the water, Trimol went downstairs to see if he could find out who was responsible but did not spot anyone. He was then directed to the hostel manager, who applied petroleum jelly to his burns. The next morning, he received treatment at the dispensary near the hostel and later at the Port Mourant Public Hospital.

Trimol mentioned he was moved to a separate room for the night. He insisted he had not had any problems with his classmates. However, he did share that three glasses had been deliberately broken on different occasions, and no one could explain how that happened. He also said some students had poured water on his uniform in the washroom, and right before Easter break, he experienced hot water being thrown on him, though it didn’t leave any scars.

“They also stole three phones from me,’’ he said, noting that searches were conducted but the phones were never found.

“I’m hurt. Usually, I get a hard time sleeping because of the pain,” Trimol admitted. Despite everything, he plans to return to finish his program at the training center which is expected to conclude in June/August.

Trimol sustained burns to his left side face, shoulder, and chest. Presently, he is recovering at home.

‘’I’m hoping for better security. Hopefully, the bullying stops,” he added.

Trimol’s father, Trimmin Noble, feels that more protective measures are needed for people staying at the hostel.

“I’m so sad this happen to my son; it could have been something more serious. This is my son, and I ain’t like this. This is so painful and hurtful for him. Every day, he got to wake up in front of the mirror and look to see what people do to him, something he doesn’t know about. It is so hard for the family, also for him,’’ Trimmin said.

Trimmin is waiting for updates from the hostel about the results of their investigation. He reported the incident to the Whim Police Station and is urging the police and higher authorities to step in and carry out a thorough investigation so that justice can be served.

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See below full statement from the Minister of Education, Sonia Parag: 

I am deeply disturbed and hurt by the video currently being circulated publicly which appears to show acts of abuse being perpetrated against students of the David Rose Special Education Needs School in Georgetown.

No child should ever be subjected to such treatment, particularly within a school environment entrusted with their care, development and protection. Our children with special educational needs, as all children do, deserve patience, compassion, dignity and love. They deserve to learn in spaces where they feel safe, supported and valued.

I wish to advise that both teachers seen in the video will be placed on administrative leave with effect from tomorrow, Friday 29th May 2026, to facilitate a full and impartial investigation. This investigation, together with the relevant reports and recommendations, is expected to be completed by Monday 1st June 2026.

The Ministry of Education will exert the fullest extent of its authority and resources to ensure that this matter is addressed urgently and appropriately. We will not allow any educator to perpetuate abuse against children with special needs, or indeed against any child within our school system.

To the parents and families affected by what they have seen, I wish to say that I understand the distress, hurt and anger this incident has caused. As parents, guardians and caregivers, you place enormous trust in our education system each day when you send your children to school. That trust must never be violated. It is precisely because the Government of Guyana continues to place significant emphasis on strengthening special education support and services that this matter is being treated with the seriousness and urgency it deserves.

As one of the immediate next steps arising from this matter, I will move to have a Board of Governors established for the institution, with representation that includes parents, so as to strengthen oversight, accountability and engagement between the school and the families it serves.

The Ministry of Education remains committed to ensuring that every child in our education system is protected and treated with dignity.

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The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has taken another significant step toward the professionalisation of its domestic game, partnering with regional governing body CONCACAF to host a comprehensive Club Licensing Workshop.

The session, staged at the Guyana Olympic Association Headquarters on Wednesday, brought together Elite League club presidents, secretaries, and specialised COMET platform users.

The primary objective centred on tightening administrative structures, sharpening governance, and ensuring local clubs meet stringent international standards.

Central to the day’s proceedings was practical, hands-on training regarding the documentation requirements for the COMET system—the digital framework used globally to manage football administration, player registrations, and licensing.

Under the direct guidance of two visiting CONCACAF officials, club representatives utilised the interactive session to work directly on the platform, navigating the uploading and compliance processes in real time.

The initiative underlines a sustained effort by the GFF to align Guyana’s top-tier football ecosystem with broader regional and global best practices.

By bridging the gap between administrative policy and practical execution, the federation aims to build a more robust, self-sustaining infrastructure for its Elite League clubs moving forward.

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