Persons responsible for acid attack on pupils, teachers could face terrorism charges – AG

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs has made it clear that the perpetrators behind the acid attack on three students and two teachers of the Chateau Margot Primary School could be charged with terrorism.

The incident occurred on Monday as the pupils and teachers were walking home. Reports are that two men on a motorcycle approached and threw a substance on them, causing them to sustain injuries on their faces and other parts of their bodies.

The victims sought medical attention and have since met with President Dr Irfaan Ali and other ministers of government who pledged their support and commitment in ensuring justice is served.

Questioning “what could inspire such dastard acts?”, Nandlall said from all indications, the proper offence to charge the perpetrators with “is no less an offence other than terrorism”.

This is provided for under Section 309 (A) of the Criminal Law Offences Act. During his programme “Issues in the News” on Tuesday, the Attorney General went into details on this section of the Act and noted that persons found guilty of this offence where a death has occurred, is subjected to the death penalty. In cases where death has not occurred, the accused would be fined no less than $500,000 and would be imprisoned for no less than 10 years nor more than 15 years.

Under the law, Nandlall pointed out that anyone who conspires or attempts to commit, or advocates, aids and abets, or advices or incites or knowingly facilitates the commission of a terrorist act, commits an offence, and shall be punishable for the offence as if s/he had been guilty as an offender.

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) has since launched an investigation into the acid attack incident.

Meanwhile, in a statement, the Ministry of Education outlined that after learning of the incident, Education Minister Priya Manickchand arranged for the victims to be taken to the hospital. The Minister also met with the victims and offered her support.

Meanwhile, the government has since committed to providing medical care to those affected. Additionally, in close collaboration with the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA) and the Ministry of Education, trauma-focus counseling is being extended to facilitate the emotional healing process. Dedicated follow-up engagements are also being prioritised for both the students, parents and teachers.