A member of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) was injured on Monday after a military patrol came under gunfire while escorting civilian vessels along the country’s western border in Region Seven.
According to an official statement from the GDF, the incident occurred at approximately 11:30 hours during a routine boat patrol operation between Makapa and Eteringbang. The patrol was providing security for three civilian boats transporting personnel and cargo when it encountered hostile fire in the vicinity of Black Water.
The GDF reported that its ranks immediately returned fire and executed evasive maneuvers to safely guide the convoy out of the area. During the exchange of gunfire, one soldier sustained two gunshot wounds to the right leg.
The injured rank was promptly given first aid at the scene to stabilize his condition before being evacuated for advanced medical care. He is currently being transported to Georgetown, where he is expected to receive further treatment for his injuries.
The Defence Force has not disclosed the identity of the attackers or the circumstances leading to the confrontation but emphasized that operations along the western border remain active and ongoing.
“The Guyana Defence Force continues to maintain an active operational presence along the western border,” the statement said. “The Force remains fully committed to the protection of its personnel and the safeguarding of Guyana’s territorial integrity.”
Authorities have not yet indicated whether additional security measures will be implemented following the incident. The situation remains under assessment as the GDF continues its patrols in the region.
The shooting incident highlights the security challenges faced by the military in maintaining border operations and protecting civilian activity in remote areas of the country.
