AGP Executive Report

Unity Beach Tragedy: Bodies of a pregnant Victoria Village woman and her fiancé, a Special Constable, were recovered from the Atlantic after a multi-day search following strong currents that swept them away. Public Safety & Accountability: A former police officer warned of declining professionalism in the Guyana Police Force, while a separate probe into the Water Street fire says it was deliberately set. Justice Update: “IsWe” (Shaquawn Alleyne) pleaded guilty to the 2021 murder of Shonnette Dover; sentencing is set for June 17. Politics: PNCR leader Aubrey Norton dismissed claims the coalition is collapsing and said Azruddin Mohamed entered politics to avoid extradition. Online Child Protection: Government launched national consultations on regulating social media’s harmful impact on children. Energy & Economy: Officials are silent on Karpowership’s reported demand for an extra US$3.4M daily as blackouts rise; meanwhile, Guyana continues a crackdown on illegal mining with six operations shut down. Sports: Cricket West Indies released its 2026 home schedule, with matches across the region including Guyana.

Power Crisis: Government officials went silent on Karpowership’s demand for an extra US$3.4M daily to keep supplying electricity, as blackouts rise; the company says rates are moving from US$0.076/KW to US$0.095/KW. Mining & Investment: Canadian G Mining Ventures’ Oko West Gold project in Region Seven is being touted as a “next big thing,” with construction progress and first gold targeted for late 2027. Oil & Gas Deals: Sispro’s women-led consortium says it has partnered with Nigeria’s Bono Energy and is ready to sign a PSA soon; separately, Ghana-based Cybele Energy risks losing its offshore block after failing to pay a US$17M signing bonus. Child Safety Online: Government launched a national consultation to draft stronger protections for children against harmful social media impacts. Unity Beach Tragedy: Bodies of pregnant Lyodisa “Loyda” Waldron and fiancé Special Constable Andri Francis were recovered after they were swept away by strong currents. Aviation & Infrastructure: Three firms bid for CJIA’s air traffic control tower, while Domestic Airways’ CEO denied involvement in Sunday’s Aricheng crash. Illegal Mining Crackdown: Six illegal mining operations were shut down in Region Seven; 38 people arrested and equipment seized.

Coastal Tragedy: A pregnant woman and her fiancé, a Special Constable, were swept away at Unity Beach, triggering a joint GPF/GDF Coast Guard response as search and recovery continue. Flood Value for Money: After $240B pumped into Drainage and Irrigation, MP Duncan says citizens must see results, as Region 4 flooding renews calls for audits and accountability. Interior Health Row: Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed and MP Amanza Walton-Desir hit back at the Region 7 outreach push, questioning whether a “refurbished” passenger boat handed over as a water ambulance is fit for real emergencies. Oil & Gas Update: ExxonMobil filed for environmental approval for the Haimara gas development, outlining a major FPSO plan that would make it the ninth Stabroek project. Aviation Safety: GCAA launched investigations after a US-registered Cessna crash at Aricheng Airstrip in Guyana’s interior, with no fatalities reported. Sports & Community: Avinash Contracting recommitted to the One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast; GTTA crowned Shemar Britton and Samara Sukhai as national singles champions. Business/Connectivity: LIAT and Air Caraïbes signed an interline agreement to make Caribbean travel easier with single-ticket journeys.

Aviation Safety: Guyana’s Civil Aviation Authority has launched an investigation after a US-registered CESSNA 182P crashed during takeoff from the Aricheng Airstrip in the interior; reports say there were no fatalities and the pilot was slightly injured. Search & Rescue: Authorities are continuing a search-and-recovery operation for a pregnant woman and her fiancé missing after being swept away by strong currents while swimming at Unity Beach, East Coast Demerara. Power Reliability: GPL says electricity was disrupted in Demerara after an excavator damaged its L4 transmission line along the East Bank corridor, and it plans legal action to recover repair costs. Sports (Women & Youth): The inaugural Champion of Champions Female Softball Cup is set for July 5 in Region Three, while the One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast (Aug 8 in Berbice) keeps gaining corporate backing, including Avinash Contracting. Education Access: GOAL reports strong demand for its 2026 intake, with more than 14,000 scholarships already granted and hundreds more applications pouring in for the next round. Environment: On World Environment Day (June 5), PM Mark Phillips urged shared responsibility for environmental stewardship during the EPA’s Green Walk and Exhibition.

Aviation Safety Watch: A US-registered Cessna 182 operated by Domestic Airways crashed at Aricheng Airstrip in Region Seven; the pilot Orlando Charles escaped with minor injuries and the GCAA has launched an investigation. Power & Infrastructure: GPL says it will pursue legal action after an excavator damaged its L4 transmission line on the East Bank Demerara corridor, following another recent incident that hit distribution lines in Diamond. Flooding Pressure: APNU/PNCR again blamed drainage failures for widespread flooding in Regions 4, 5 and 6, while an APNU MP warned Rupununi Road sections are being submerged during rains. Public Safety at Sea: Police and residents continue searching for two Victoria Village residents swept away by strong currents at Unity Beach. Education Oversight: GTEC in Ghana warned the public about 70 unrecognised tertiary institutions, urging due diligence on certificates. Hinterland Support: President Ali announced soft loans and business support via the Guyana Development Bank for hinterland and Amerindian communities, with the facility set to launch after legislation. Mining & Environment: EPA is reviewing the EIA for Mako Mining’s Eagle Mountain Gold Project in Region Eight. Child Protection: Two probation officers caught dragging a schoolgirl on CCTV were dismissed.

Aviation Safety & Regulation: The GCAA has launched an investigation after a Cessna 182P (N9347G) crashed during takeoff at Aricheng Airstrip in Region Seven; the pilot/CEO Orlando Charles escaped with minor injuries, but the incident has reignited questions about Domestic Airways’ safety record and regulatory status. Search & Rescue: Police and residents are searching for a 20-year-old woman and a 31-year-old Special Constable swept away by strong currents at Unity Beach, East Coast Demerara. Public Safety & Crime: Two probation officers were dismissed after video showed them dragging a schoolgirl through the streets; in Linden, a labourer was stabbed to death during a confrontation after a suspect was seen defecating in his yard. Flooding & Governance: Opposition leaders blame government neglect and drainage failures as floodwaters swamp Regions 4, 5 and 6. Mining & Environment: EPA is reviewing the EIA for Mako Mining’s Eagle Mountain Gold Project, acquired via a 2024 takeover. Local Services: President Ali announced government service centres for Bartica and Kamarang within four weeks, plus upgrades to the Parika–Bartica ferry route. Business & Finance: Citizens Bank reported $1.34B profit after six months, up 12% year-on-year. Sports: Andrew Lewis Gym topped the GBA Development Tournament; West Ruimveldt won the Demerara zone title in Future Warriors Tapeball.

Hinterland Governance Push: President Irfaan Ali leads a May 31–June 1 cabinet outreach to Region Seven hinterland communities, with ministers and MPs fanning out from Upper Mazaruni to Upper Cuyuni and into Bartica and surrounding areas. Aviation Safety Warning: The Aviation Operators Association of Guyana urges stricter public care around hinterland airstrips after reports of dangerous runway activity, including vehicles and debris left on runways. Flood Response: Heavy, unusual rainfall has triggered flooding across parts of the country, prompting a Cabinet fanout with regional leaders and emergency agencies to coordinate drainage and relief efforts. Energy Watch: ExxonMobil Guyana has started a three-month offshore inspection of the Gas-to-Energy subsea pipeline, with vessels operating near the route and mariners told to keep clear. Regional Tensions: Venezuela accuses Guyana of fabricating border incidents to play victim, while Guyana reports a soldier wounded in a Cuyuni River exchange. Legal Leadership: Arudranauth Gossai was elected President of the Guyana Bar Association, with the new executive taking charge for 2026–2027. Education Abuse Probe: The Ministry of Education escalates its investigation into alleged mistreatment at David Rose Special School, including plans for urgent oversight changes. Sports & Culture: Guyana Defence Force and Running Brave won top honours in the Diamond Jubilee 10K road relay, while ExxonMobil GSL launches its “Super We” campaign celebrating cricket’s cultural heartbeat. Cricket Talent Pathway: Preparations continue for the New Amsterdam inter-secondary girls’ T10 cricket tournament despite rain, set for June 12–14. Aviation Incident: A Cessna 182P Skylane crashed near Aricheng Airstrip in Region Seven; the lone pilot reportedly suffered minor injuries.

INTERPOL-led crackdown: Police across 20 countries seized 3,308 illegal firearms and 56 tonnes of drugs in Operation Orca XI, with 8,701 arrests and major drug-and-ammunition hauls. Border tensions: A Guyanese soldier was wounded in a gunfight with armed men from Venezuela on the Cuyuni River, as clashes continue amid the Essequibo dispute at the ICJ. Public safety in Georgetown: A 19-year-old was shot by police during a Sophia arrest attempt; the Office of Professional Responsibility is investigating. Justice in the diaspora: Guyana-born former Des Moines schools chief Ian Roberts was sentenced to two years in federal prison over a false U.S. citizenship claim and firearm charges, with deportation expected after his term. Business and tourism: Finance Minister Ashni Singh urged local firms to expand beyond Guyana; Tourism Minister Susan Rodrigues stressed customer service as The Spice Route opens. Sports pathways: President Ali launched “Cricket in the Streets” to spot youth talent, while ExxonMobil’s Future Warriors Tapeball and GBA development boxing events push grassroots growth. Regional travel and growth: CJIA reported over 56,000 passengers during Diamond Jubilee celebrations, highlighting strong demand despite global headwinds.

EKAA HRIM Worker Dispute: Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed says he helped repatriate stranded Indian workers after alleging Labour Ministry and the employer failed on welfare, safety, and food, while the ministry claims disputes were resolved. Border Security: A Guyana Defence Force rank was injured in an exchange of gunfire along the Cuyuni River, Region Seven, during a border operation; civilians were escorted to safety and the rank is reported stable. Diamond Jubilee Travel Surge: CJIA processed about 48,500 arrivals, with over 56,000 passengers handled for the 60th Independence “Homecoming” celebrations. Caricom Cuba Rift: Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago reserved their positions and distanced themselves from a CARICOM statement condemning intensified U.S. measures on Cuba. Sports Grassroots Push: ExxonMobil Guyana launched the 4th Future Warriors Tapeball Tournament, and UNICEF with GFF and RCC ran child safeguarding training for football officials. Cricket & Boxing Development: Beharry U19 School Cricket tournament was launched, while Harpy Eagles Gym eyes strong showings at the GBA Development Tournament. Iowa Superintendent Sentencing: Guyana-born former Des Moines superintendent Ian Roberts was sentenced to two years in U.S. federal prison for citizenship fraud and illegal firearm possession, with deportation expected after serving time. Tourism Plan: Fort Island is set for upgrades to boost tourism and private investment while preserving heritage.

Education Accountability: Outrage in Guyana after CCTV shows teachers at the David Rose Special Education Needs School allegedly hitting special-needs students; both teachers were sent on administrative leave as the Ministry of Education launches a full probe. Oil & Gas: ExxonMobil has started a new exploration well, Goby-1, in the Stabroek block offshore Guyana, as production continues from Liza, Payara and Yellowtail. Regional Security/Finance: Guyana has signed and operationalised a CFATF targeted financial sanctions MOU to strengthen regional information-sharing on terrorism and proliferation financing. Governance & Roads: Opposition MP Sherod Duncan questions the worsening condition of the Kwakwani Trail in Region 10 despite billions budgeted for roads. CARICOM Integration: Minister Alexa Lightbourne says public consultation on CARICOM membership transition closes May 31, with a White Paper to follow. Cross-border Travel: Barbados and Guyana will accept national ID cards for travel from July 1, reducing reliance on passports. Tech & Identity: MotionAnalytics unveils motion-based biometric identification, while SecureAuth launches an AI agent identity control platform. Sports/Community: Guyana marks Independence with events including a Chess960 tournament win for FM Anthony Drayton and continued cricket league build-up.

Oil & Insurance: Exxon says Guyana’s US$600M oil-spill insurance remains unchanged even as more FPSOs come on stream, after court battles left the limited cover in place alongside a US$2B affiliate guarantee. Governance & Compliance: Guyana faces possible EITI suspension if it can’t show “substantial progress” on 21 corrective actions during a full Validation review. Security & Courts: A taxi driver linked to a Berbice AK-47 cache was remanded after being charged with illegal possession of 10 rifles and ammunition; police also issued wanted bulletins for three others. Healthcare Innovation: President Ali announced Guyana will perform a landmark remote robotic cardiac surgery with an India-based specialist. Public Safety: Police shot a 19-year-old in Sophia, with relatives later told it was mistaken identity; an Office of Professional Responsibility probe is underway. Finance & AML: AG Anil Nandlall pushed for tougher AML/CFT enforcement and judicial training, while Guyana signed a CFATF MOU to enable targeted terrorism-financing information sharing. Regional Ties: Guyana and Barbados plan a joint “Trident Arrow” investment fund for citizens to back nation-building projects. Sports & Culture: Independence celebrations featured chess, tapeball cricket titles, and growing boxing development, alongside tributes to local sports figures.

Independence Politics: Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed used Guyana’s 60th anniversary address to warn that corruption and inequality could derail the country’s future, while President Irfaan Ali called for unity and urged citizens to reject partisan division. Parliament Watch: The 13th Parliament is set to reconvene on June 5 after opposition pressure, with FGM leader Amanza Walton-Desir saying the executive only moved after international attention. Border & Diplomacy: Venezuela hit back hard at Ali’s Essequibo remarks, calling them “provocative and delusional,” and rejecting ICJ involvement; meanwhile Guyana and T&T reserved positions on CARICOM’s Cuba statement. Travel & Regional Integration: Barbados and Guyana launched passport-free travel using national e-ID cards from July 1, with leaders also pointing to a new regional investment fund. Cricket: Cricket West Indies confirmed the 2026 home season—SL, NZ and Pakistan—with NZ ODIs split between Guyana and Barbados due to logistics. Energy/Industry: Ali urged oil firms to invest more in carbon capture tech as Guyana pushes a lower-impact model for oil and gas. Public Safety: A viral funeral incident in Guyana saw a coffin break and a body fall out during transport.

CARICOM–Cuba Tensions: CARICOM foreign ministers voiced “profound concern” over intensified U.S. measures against Cuba, but Guyana and Trinidad & Tobago reserved their positions from the COFCOR statement, citing their Shield of the Americas ties. Digital Travel Push: Guyana and Barbados launched a shared digital ID passport-free travel system this week, with e-ID use demonstrated at the border and rollout set for July 1. Venezuela Border Row: Venezuela rejected Guyana’s Independence claims over Essequibo, insisting the 1966 Geneva Agreement remains the only valid path via direct talks. Health Breakthrough: Landmark robotic cardiac telesurgery was performed in Guyana, with a surgeon operating remotely from India for a coronary bypass. Crime Update: A Lethem robbery ended with one bandit found dead after a police chase; another suspect was arrested and a third remains at large. Uranium Mining Concern: Canadian firm U92 says uranium project risks are reduced because the Kurupung site is remote. GECOM Stalemate: Opposition leader Azruddin Mohamed says GECOM nominee consultations are paused pending legal advice. Cricket & Sports: CWI unveiled the 2026 home schedule (with Guyana hosting New Zealand ODIs) and CPL/GSL bundle tickets go on sale May 28.

CARICOM–Cuba: Foreign ministers meeting in Suriname condemned US threats of military action against Cuba and urged respect for Cuba’s right to import fuel, warning the measures are worsening a humanitarian crisis and affecting CARICOM nationals living there. Digital Travel & Integration: Guyana and Barbados will allow passport-free travel from July 1 using national digital ID cards; economist Jeremy Stephen cautioned the impact may be mostly “ceremonial” unless airport processing delays are fixed. Diaspora Finance: President Ali says a Guyana diaspora bond will launch within a week to fund infrastructure, alongside plans for a new regional investment fund. Medical Milestone: Guyana performed the world’s longest-distance robotic cardiac telesurgery, with Dr. Sudhir Srivastava operating from Georgetown on a patient in India over ~20,000 km via fibre-optic links. Independence Wrap: Diamond Jubilee celebrations ended with a drone and light show over Georgetown’s Fort Island emblems, plus performances by Guyana and Barbados defence bands. Security & Crime: INTERPOL-led Operation Orca XI seized 3,308 illegal firearms and 56 tonnes of drugs across 20 countries, with Guyana among participants. Sports: Trinidad and Tobago’s Red Force won the West Indies Championship title over Guyana by 141 runs.

Tele-robotic Surgery Milestone: Guyana marked Independence Day with the world’s longest-distance telesurgery—coronary bypass surgery performed from Guyana on a patient in India—using the Mantra Freedom 60 robotics system, with more robotic procedures also completed locally. Independence Finale: The Diamond Jubilee ended at the National Stadium with a drone and light show of Guyana’s emblems, plus performances from the Guyana Defence Force and Barbados’ band. Regional Integration Push: President Ali and Barbados PM Mia Mottley confirmed travel between the two countries will switch to digital ID cards only from July 1, and both leaders also flagged a new Guyana–Barbados investment fund. Security & Governance: Ali urged unity while border security was beefed up after recent attacks, and the government is rolling out AI-backed smart policing plans. Business & Sports: GCCI praised local content laws as a jobs engine; Cricket West Indies and IBA both issued major Guyana-linked tributes and appointments. Aviation Shock: Caribbean Airlines is cutting routes and frequencies amid losses, including discontinuing some services from June 1.

Independence in the spotlight: Guyana’s 60th anniversary celebrations at Fort Island were marked by a major flag-raising hiccup, with the Golden Arrowhead’s hoist delayed for about 30 minutes before a smaller flag was used. Healthcare leap: President Irfaan Ali says Guyana will perform the world’s longest-distance robotic cardiac surgery today, with a specialist in India operating remotely using the SSI Mantra system. Regional travel boost: Barbados and Guyana will let eligible citizens travel using only national ID cards starting July 1, dropping passport requirements. Security overhaul: Ali unveiled a new AI-backed national intelligence and policing model aimed at coordinated, real-time threat tracking. Labour dispute: EKAA HRIM says all April and May wages are settled, but workers still dispute return travel costs. Oil-linked logistics: Norwegian RoRo vessel Höegh Pacific made a historic first call to Georgetown carrying 800 vehicles. Sports: Swan United and Timehri United stormed into East Bank Elite League qualifier semi-finals.