Many schools and businesses closed today following violent protests that erupted last night after the announcement of the post-mortem results for 11-year-old Adrianna Younge.
Demonstrators took to the streets in Georgetown, East Bank Demerara, West Bank Demerara, West Coast Demerara, Berbice, Essequibo, Linden, and other areas across the country.
The protests disrupted traffic, blocked roads, burned debris, damaged public infrastructure, and resulted in the looting of businesses. Multiple reports of robberies in these areas have also surfaced.
In response to the chaos, many commercial businesses, public offices, and schools temporarily closed for safety reasons. Citizens, fearing further unrest, stayed indoors, creating a tense and gloomy atmosphere, especially in high-traffic zones.
American Airlines flights AA 2547 (JFK) and AA 1513 (MIA) were diverted to Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, and the US Embassy in Georgetown also cancelled visa and American Citizen Services appointments.
To restore order, the Ministry of Home Affairs enacted a “Public Safety Order 2025” under the Public Order Act Cap.16:03.
The order prohibits public meetings, gatherings, processions, and marches between the hours of 12:30 am and 5:00 am. It took effect immediately and will remain in place indefinitely.
Home Affairs Minister Robsen Benn led a clean-up campaign early this morning, overseeing the removal of debris from several affected locations.
The Guyana Police Force has launched a full investigation into the unrest. The Commissioner’s Office issued a statement confirming that all available evidence, including video footage and photos, will be reviewed to identify those responsible for criminal acts.
Charges may include arson, destruction of public and private property, personal violence, and acts of terrorism.
Despite efforts to quell the unrest, some areas remain volatile. Police reports indicate the shooting deaths of two alleged robbers, and several wanted bulletins have been issued for individuals connected to the disturbances.
