A violent confrontation at a remote gold mining operation in Guyana’s Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) has resulted in one fatality and two serious injuries, according to a Thursday police briefing. The incident occurred on Tuesday morning along the Siparuni River when three armed assailants allegedly assaulted several miners following accusations of stolen precious metal.
The deceased has been identified as 32-year-old Rowell ‘Kabaloo’ La Cruz from Warapoka Village in the North West District. Two other miners—a 36-year-old from Greater Georgetown and North Rupununi, and a 25-year-old from Paramakatoi Village—sustained severe injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment at healthcare facilities.
Police reports indicate the altercation began when La Cruz and another miner were confronted in the kitchen area of the dredging operation camp. The suspects, allegedly armed with a handgun, cutlasses, and a mattock handle, accused them of extracting gold from a sluice box. The victims were then forcibly marched to a nearby watch camp where they encountered another individual before the brutal beating commenced.
Following the assault, public-spirited citizens assisted the injured men toward the riverfront. Tragically, La Cruz succumbed to his injuries during transport. His body was subsequently located at a nearby camp with visible marks of violence, then escorted to the Linden Hospital Complex Mortuary. A post-mortem examination has been scheduled to determine the exact cause of death.
Law enforcement authorities have launched a manhunt for the three suspects believed responsible for the attack. The investigation continues as police work to piece together the precise circumstances surrounding the theft allegations and subsequent violence.