The reported harassment of Guyanese in Corentyne, Berbice by Surinamese military is being investigated. This is according to Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Sydney Allicock who was quoted in another section of the media as saying that Government has taken note of the recent occurrences and is working to remedy the situation.
“Our ambassador who is the authority there with regards to addressing these issues is presently following up the matter… we look forward for the eventual outcome of the whole situation,” Allicock stated.
Minister Allicock further explained that his ministry will be updating the nation on the situation. He related that according to reports he received, tensions in the area have eased. He however cautioned that one “could never tell what could happen.”
On January 26, there were reports that the Surinamese Coastguard officers were hassling Guyanese fishermen and Indigenous People at Orealla. It was alleged that as much as “G$10,000” was demanded from Guyanese to engage in fishing activities in the area. It was also reported that fishermen’s passports and identification cards were also being demanded.
