GEORGETOWN — President Dr. Irfaan Ali has issued a grave reminder that the deadly explosion at the Mobil Fuel Station in Georgetown, which claimed the life of six-year-old Soraya Bourne, could carry the death penalty if found to be an act of terrorism.
Citing Section 3(1) of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:01, the President emphasized that “a person who commits a terrorist act commits an offence and shall, on conviction, be liable to death if such act results in the death of any person.”
His statement underscores the Government’s intent to treat the October 26 blast not merely as a criminal act but as a potential act of terror, subject to the harshest penalties available under Guyanese law. Dr. Ali’s remarks come amid mounting public concern and an escalating investigation that has already led to the arrest of three individuals, including a Venezuelan national, as authorities intensify efforts to track down the principal suspect seen in CCTV footage.
Police have since issued a Wanted Bulletin for a Spanish-speaking man believed to be directly involved in planting the explosive device near the gas cylinders. The President reaffirmed that Guyana will not tolerate terrorism or any attempt to destabilize public safety, warning that those responsible would face “the full force of the law.”
He also praised the Guyana Police Force, the Guyana Defence Force, and forensic experts for their coordinated work in what has now become one of the most high-profile investigations in recent years.
Government officials have hinted that national security agencies are exploring whether the attack may be part of a broader pattern, following earlier explosions at the East Ruimveldt Police Outpost and a GPL power facility earlier this year.
