By Travis Chase | HGP Nightly News.
GEORGETOWN, GUYANA — The People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) has accused the government of abusing anti-terrorism laws in the wake of widespread protests over the death of 11-year-old Adriana Younge, whose body was discovered in the pool of the Double Day Hotel in Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo.
In a strongly worded statement issued Friday, the PNCR condemned the mass arrests and terrorism charges laid against more than 100 individuals, many of whom were arrested following nationwide demonstrations that erupted after the autopsy findings were released.
The Guyana Police Force claims it used Facebook images and CCTV footage to identify and issue wanted bulletins for protestors allegedly involved in acts of terrorism, looting, and vandalism. Most of those arrested have been remanded to prison.
“If you have a corrupt government that only uses technology when it suits them, then you know they can’t be trusted — even with the technology,” said PNCR Leader Aubrey Norton.
While the PNCR clarified that it is not opposed to legal consequences for looters, it is demanding the removal of the terrorism-related charge under the Criminal Law Offenses Act. Instead, the party has called for the government to use appropriate and proportionate charges.
“The use of the offense of inciting public terror is an abuse of power and an attempt to silence and instill fear in those demanding justice for Adriana Younge,” the party stated.
AG Nandlall: No Better Charge Available
Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall was the first government official to defend the use of the terrorism law, stating:
“We couldn’t have found a better charge,” when addressing the nature of the protests and unrest.
However, critics — including legal professionals and opposition figures — argue that no substantial evidence has been presented against many of the individuals charged, and the application of anti-terrorism laws is disproportionate to the acts committed.
The PNCR is also calling for the immediate release of all innocent bystanders who may have been wrongfully swept up in the police response.
This controversy adds to the growing tensions surrounding the investigation into Adriana Younge’s death, as the public continues to demand justice, accountability, and now, restraint in state response to civil unrest.
