Six Guyanese Soldiers Injured in Border Clash with Venezuelan Gangsters

On Monday, six soldiers from the Guyana Defence Force were injured during a clash with suspected Venezuelan gang members along the Cuyuni River. The soldiers were on a resupply mission when they were ambushed by heavily armed assailants from two boats who opened fire, prompting a return fire from the GDF. Two of the injured soldiers are in critical condition, and all are now reported to be stable after receiving medical treatment. This incident has escalated tensions between Guyana and Venezuela, particularly as both countries continue to dispute the mineral-rich Essequibo region. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has previously threatened to annex this area, which further complicates the security situation along the border. The Guyana Defence Force has committed to reinforcing its presence in the region to safeguard national security and protect its personnel.