Guyana’s President Dr. Irfaan Ali has described last Sunday’s gas station attack as a “vile assault” on Guyana and affirmed that justice will be relentlessly pursued.
“This attack bore all the hallmarks of terrorism. It was an attempt ot sow fear and chaos, to destabilise, to create tension.
“The investigation will continue, the motives behind this heinous act will come to light… We will pursue justice relentlessly,” the President said on Saturday as he addressed the Guyana Defence Force’s 60th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service at the National Cultural Centre.
A horrific explosion unfolded at the Mobil Gas Station on Regent and King Streets on Sunday night. After the explosion, six-year-old Soraya Bourne lost her life. Several others were injured.
Daniel Alexander Ramirez Peodomo, a Venezuelan national who authorities believe is part of a notorious gang, confessed to the attack. He reportedly told investigators that he did so hours after he entered Guyana from Venezuela via boat.
Venezuelan man confesses to bombing gas station, entered Guyana mere hours before
Peodomo and several others are in Police custody as the investigation into the attack continues. President Ali was clear that all perpetrators would be brought to justice; he also hinted previously that the death penalty would be pursued.
However, the Head of State urged Guyanese to refrain from any violence or aggression.
“… we cannot paint all immigrants with the same brush. Hatred is not the answer to hatred, fear must not drive our national policy, he said, adding, “Guyana will remain a compassionate nation, but one that is also vigilant against those who seek to exploit us.”
As he spoke about the attack, the President expressed confidence in the local security forces. According to him, it was collaborative, intelligence-led work that allowed local authorities to close in on the attacker and his accomplices in a matter of days.
Against that backdrop, the Commander-in-Chief of the Guyanese Armed Forces assured citizens that its security forces are working tirelessly to keep the country safe.
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