Those responsible for the recent chemical attack on several schoolchildren and teachers on the East Coast of Demerara could face terrorism-related charges under Guyana’s Criminal Law (Offences) Act, says the country’s Attorney General, Anil Nandlall.
The AG, via his “Issues in the News” programme, condemned the attack, as he questioned what could have motivated such an extreme act of violence against innocent children and teachers.
“That act cannot be rationalised on any level…These are schoolchildren, in their school uniform, walking home in the company of two teachers,” Nandlall said.
He noted that while their injuries were “not too serious”, the act in itself speaks to the level of hate being harboured by a few in society.
He was keen to note the seriousness of the crime, noting that the Criminal Law (Offences) Act prescribes the death penalty if victims succumb to their injuries. If no death follows the crime, perpetrators can still be fined and jailed for up to 15 years. The AG hastened to add that the legislation not only speaks to direct attacks but also encompasses those who conspire, attempt, assist or encourage such “dastardly” actions.
The attack was carried out last Monday when three pupils and two teachers were heading home from school at Chateau Margot.
According to reports, two men on motorcycles rode up to them before hurling the substance, leaving the victims with injuries to their faces and other parts of their bodies. They were immediately rushed to the hospital.
They have since been visited by President Dr Irfaan Ali and other government officials and assured that justice will be served.
A photo of the perpetrators, who were captured on a passerby’s dash-cam, has been submitted to the authorities, and a wanted bulletin has been issued.
The probe is ongoing.
