Amidst the wars and chaos of today, India is on the verge of a large oil find that could potentially skyrocket its position in the oil market.

This new revelation comes from India’s exploration of potential oil reservoirs in the Andaman Sea, which is located southeast of the Bay of Bengal.

Since the 1950s, India has worked with its national oil com­pany, the Oil and Natural Gas Company (ONGC), to survey and discern the area’s bountiful oil content. However, Indonesia and Myanmar have had the most success in oil drilling.

India’s Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri revealed while at the annual UrjaVatra event on Thursday, July 17, 2025, that India is planning to drill and explore for more hydrocarbons in an area of more than 2,00,000 sq km under Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP), with a target to increase exploration acreage to 0.5 million sq km by 2025 and 1.0 million sq km by 2030.

With this exploration venture, the recent Russian oil sanctions placed by the United States (US) for countries dealing with oil from Russia allow India to take charge of who and what gets a say in their Oil and Gas industry.

An opportunity is now created for the country to reduce its need for oil importation from the Eastern country, which delivers 40% of the country’s crude oil needs, while also increasing its economic growth to the trillions.

Consequently, the positive implications this may have on Guyana’s diplomatic relations with India and the US are real. With the reduced reliance on Russian oil under US sanctions pressure, strengthening the geopolitical alignment between India and the West may foster pertinent investment and diplomatic opportunities.

Guyana, which has always been seen as a pro-West democratic producer, may benefit diplomatically and commercially from aligning with countries that avoid Russian crude.

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Colwyn King, former president of the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU), was on Thursday sentenced to 19 years in prison for the rape of a six-year-old girl.

King, 61, was unanimously found guilty by a 12-member jury last month at the High Court in Georgetown.

The offence stems from two separate incidents in April 2021, during which he raped the child—once at night and again in the afternoon—when the child was left alone and vulnerable.

The trial was presided over by Justice Simone Morris.

State Counsel Muntaz Ali and State Counsel Geneva Wills prosecuted the case, while King was represented by Attorney Tonza Sarrabo during the trial.

However, at the sentencing hearing, King opted to represent himself.

Following the guilty verdict, King, who had been out on bail, was immediately remanded.

He returned to court on July 17, 2025, for sentencing and was handed a 19-year prison term.

In 2009, King faced a similar charge but was acquitted in 2016 after a jury trial.

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Guyana’s national security architecture is evolving into a modern, data-driven system designed not only to protect borders and resources but also to safeguard citizens in every corner of the country.

This is according to Colonel Sheldon Howell, Director of the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), who appeared on Episode 4 of Safeguarding Our Nation to explain how national security is everyone’s business.

“National security protects our people, our land, and our way of life,” Howell stated.

He explained that the national security system unites all branches of government, incorporating key agencies such as NISA, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), the Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU), the Guyana Fire Service (GFS), the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), the Guyana Prison Service (GPS), and the Guyana Police Force (GPF).

At the centre of this framework, Howell emphasised, are the people of Guyana.

“At the heart of this architecture is you, the citizens,” he emphasised.

Guyana’s national security strategy, Howell explained, now integrates advanced surveillance and response tools.

These include drones, artificial intelligence (AI), satellite imagery, CCTV systems, and GPS-enabled patrols, all coordinated to respond to threats across land, air, sea, and cyberspace.

“It uses modern tools like drones, sophisticated cameras, satellite imagery, AI, and other data platforms that are coordinated in such a way that they respond quickly to threats,” he said.

“NISA collects the data, processes it, and disseminates it to local and international partners — including the USA, UK, Brazil, France, and countries in the Caribbean and Latin America.”

One successful operation involved shutting down illegal airstrips and mining camps deep in Region Nine.

“Drones spotted illegal airstrips and mining camps. We were able to deploy teams quickly to shut down those operations, thanks to community information as well as aerial surveillance.”

Another case involved the interception of Venezuelan vessels that had crossed illegally into Guyana’s waters.

“We have radar systems and coastal surveillance, along with GPS tap patrol, that let us intercept these vessels to protect our territory.”

In urban centres, the government has implemented CCTV cameras and e-ticketing systems to help reduce traffic violations and assist police with investigations.

In remote areas, cross-border tracking systems are used to monitor the movement of individuals, allowing authorities to detect and understand potential threats more effectively.

“But at the heart of it is the command centre, which connects the dots and helps us to respond quickly,” Howell explained. “You may not see the work all the time, but work is being done behind the scenes to keep our people and our country safe.”

Howell noted that the government is not just focused on acquiring equipment but also on building human capital. The recently launched National Defence Institute (NDI) is one example.

“The Institute seeks to bring together military personnel, academia, the private sector, civil society, and Caribbean nations with the aim to understand common threats and assist in formulating new policies and strategies.”

With growing surveillance capabilities, Howell acknowledged the public’s concerns about privacy and emphasised the government’s commitment to responsible use of technology.

“This is a valid concern, even for me. We take this very seriously. We don’t want to take away people’s freedom; we want to protect it,” he said. “Yes, we use sophisticated technology, but we stick rigidly to the laws that govern us.”

He assured the public that every piece of surveillance equipment is logged and audited, with strict access control and traceability systems in place. Plans are also underway to introduce an oversight board that includes civil society representatives.

“These tools are not a threat once they are used with discipline and with the purpose to earn the public’s trust.”

Howell revealed that the country has strengthened its response mechanisms for missing persons, particularly children. Soon, Guyana will launch a national alert system.

“This system will send real-time information to phones, televisions, radios, and social media platforms,” he said.

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Vice President and General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, says that efforts by A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) to quietly use US-sanctioned businessman Azruddin Mohamed to split PPP support have failed and are now backfiring on them.

Speaking to reporters at the Umana Yana shortly after the PPP/C submitted its official list of candidates to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Jagdeo accused APNU of working behind the scenes with Mohamed and the newly formed We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party in a bid to undermine the PPP/C at the September 1 polls. “I think APNU has a bigger problem with the Mohameds than we ever will,” Jagdeo said bluntly. “Their quiet collaboration has collapsed. All the promises they made to him, including the notion that he could avoid facing accountability for his criminal conduct, are now unraveling in full view.”

The Vice President was referring to Mohamed’s inclusion on the U.S. sanctions list over alleged involvement in a multi-million-dollar gold smuggling operation, as well as ongoing tax evasion charges in Guyana.

Jagdeo alleged that APNU’s alliance with Mohamed was transactional one based on funding and the hope that WIN would peel votes away from traditional PPP/C supporters. “They thought they could use him to split our base, but the outcome is the opposite. WIN is now creeping into APNU’s strongholds and that’s a mess of their own making,” he said.

He made it clear that the PPP/C would not entertain any post-election arrangement with Mohamed, regardless of the results. When asked directly if the party would consider a deal with WIN in the event of a hung parliament, Jagdeo didn’t flinch in saying…“There will not be a hung parliament.”

Meanwhile, reaffirming confidence in his party’s position heading into the election, he pointed to the PPP’s performance in 2020 despite significant adversity. “We overcame every obstacle thrown at us and still won. Since then, we’ve only grown stronger. Meanwhile, APNU is a shadow of its former self and the AFC can’t even settle on a Prime Ministerial candidate,” he said.

Jagdeo’s sharp response signals that the PPP/C is not only confident heading into the 2025 race, but also unbothered by attempts to disrupt its electoral standing through what he described as “political

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Prime Ministerial candidate for the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C), Retired Brigadier Mark Phillips, has promised more cash grants and continued social support as the party launched its 2025 campaign on Sunday at Kitty Market Square, Georgetown.

Addressing a vibrant crowd clad in red, Phillips underscored the government’s achievements over the last five years and assured that the economic and social programmes benefiting ordinary Guyanese would be expanded.

“Our government cares for the people,” Phillips said. “Last year, every Guyanese adult received a $100,000 COVID cash grant. And I want to tell you today, more cash grants are coming, and they will not be less than $100,000.”

He detailed the government’s record on delivering tangible improvements, including over 50,000 house lots distributed, free education from nursery through university, investments in health care and infrastructure, and targeted subsidies to ease the cost of living.

Phillips reminded the crowd that despite global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and rising inflation worldwide, Guyana has maintained stable electricity prices and removed fuel taxes to cushion the impact on citizens.

“Our leadership, under President Dr. Irfaan Ali and General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, has made Guyana a model of development and stability,” he said.

The retired Brigadier also highlighted infrastructure projects, such as new highways, bridges, hospitals, and modernised schools equipped with smart technology. He praised the expansion of internet access to 238 villages, which has connected hinterland communities and enhanced educational opportunities.

Phillips appealed to voters to check the electoral list and ensure they are registered to vote in the September 1 elections.

“This is not just about voting for today,” Phillips said. “It is about securing five more years of growth, development, and visionary leadership for you and your children.”

As Phillips concluded his remarks, he called on supporters to maintain focus and determination, declaring, “The red army has risen again. We march to victory on September 4th.”

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Significant progress is being made in Indigenous communities across Guyana under the leadership of President Dr. Irfaan Ali and the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C), former Deputy Speaker Lenox Shuman said on Sunday.

Speaking at the PPP/C campaign launch at Kitty Market Square, Shuman highlighted how Indigenous villages in the South Rupununi are currently being incorporated into a unified company.

This initiative aims to empower these communities economically and integrate them into Guyana’s broader economy, fostering sustainable development and self-reliance.

“This quiet but powerful transformation is a direct result of the visionary and dynamic leadership of the PPP/C government,” Shuman said. “For too long, Indigenous peoples have been marginalised, but now real opportunities are being presented for our communities to thrive.”

Drawing from his personal experience and close ties to these communities, Shuman said he has witnessed firsthand the tangible benefits that the government’s policies have brought to Indigenous peoples.

He further praised the PPP/C’s commitment to education, noting the provision of free education from nursery to doctorate level as a vital investment in the future of all Guyanese, including Indigenous youth.

“This is about securing a future not just for ourselves but for generations to come,” Shuman said.

In concluding his remarks, Shuman expressed his confidence in the PPP/C’s leadership and urged Guyanese to support the party in the upcoming September 1 elections.

“When you cast your vote, remember it is a responsibility to your family, your community, and the future of our nation,” he said. “The PPP/C is the only party that has consistently shown it cares for all Guyanese and is committed to inclusive development.”

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Terrence Thomas, also known as ‘Oosh,’ has pleaded guilty to the brutal 2022 murder of 28-year-old Loretha Simon, who was fatally stabbed at her mother’s Sophia, Greater Georgetown residence in front of her nine-year-old sister.

The 36-year-old accused appeared recently before Justice Priscilla Chandra-Hanif at the High Court in Demerara, where he formally entered a guilty plea to the capital offence.

The court has scheduled his sentencing for August 18, 2025. Presenting the State’s case was prosecutor Darin Chan, who outlined the disturbing facts of the killing, which occurred just after midday on Thursday, January 27, 2022.

Simon, who was 28 years old and pregnant at the time, had been visiting her mother’s home and was preparing to cook curry when Thomas launched his deadly attack.

After fatally stabbing her, he fled the scene, leaving the murder weapon behind. The horrifying incident unfolded in the presence of Simon’s younger sister, who was just nine years old at the time.

Justice Chandra-Hanif is expected to consider all aggravating and mitigating factors before handing down the sentence next month.

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Tony Nelson, a 23-year-old inventory clerk and father of one, was charged with assault causing actual bodily harm to the mother of his child, Alicia Daily.

Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty granted him $20,000 bail at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Friday. The incident reportedly occurred on June 27 at La Penitence, Georgetown, during a confrontation involving the child.

Nelson of Mandela Avenue, Georgetown, pleaded not guilty to the charge. His attorney, Latchmie Rahamat, told the court that her client went to collect his child, but Daily allegedly refused to hand the child over.

An argument followed, during which she reportedly attacked Nelson, prompting him to act in self-defence.

Rahamat argued that there were no aggravating factors, Nelson had no prior offences, and he was not a flight risk—grounds she said justified reasonable bail.

The prosecution did not oppose bail but requested that both parties be placed on a peace bond due to the domestic nature of the case. Magistrate McGusty agreed, granting bail and ordering both Nelson and Daily to keep the peace for the duration of the matter.

The case was adjourned to July 18 for further proceedings.

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Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, has described the days leading up to the People’s Progressive Party/Civic’s (PPP/C) campaign launch and Nomination Day as “two high-energy days,” marked by excitement, unity, and strong public support.

Speaking on Thursday on Guyana Dialogue, she said the party is fully mobilised, with tens of thousands of supporters expected to take to the streets in what she described as one of the most anticipated events of the election season.

“We are excited as we approach Nomination Day on July 14. Just the day before that, we’ll officially launch our campaign. That is usually a massive event, and we anticipate that this year will be no different,” Rodrigues said.

“If it is any different, it will be even more massive than previous years.” She noted that the symbolic march to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), where the party’s list of candidates will be submitted, is expected to draw large crowds and showcase the PPP/C’s strength on the ground.

The campaign launch, set for Sunday, will feature addresses by President Dr. Irfaan Ali, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, and Prime Minister Mark Phillips. The party will unveil its vision for the future, focusing on continued national development, improved service delivery, and inclusive governance.

Rodrigues also underscored the diversity of the PPP/C’s candidate list, which includes youth, women, professionals, and experienced community leaders.

“We are very proud of the list of candidates we will put up for the election. The PPP/C slate always has Guyanese from all walks of life — all ethnicities, religions, young people, and seniors. The list will be reflective of Guyana,” she stated.

As the PPP/C seeks re-election, Rodrigues affirmed the party’s commitment to advancing policies aimed at improving the lives of all Guyanese. She said the campaign will highlight the government’s achievements while setting the course for deeper grassroots transformation.

Social media has already been flooded with endorsements for President Ali and the PPP/C, along with vibrant displays of support – images of red t-shirts, waving flags, caravans, and community gatherings across the country. Rodrigues credited this energy to the party’s strong connection with the people and its record of delivery.

“Nomination Day is a very big day for the PPP/C,” she added. “It’s always inspiring to walk alongside ordinary Guyanese as we head to GECOM. It’s more than a formality—it’s a celebration of our democracy and our shared future.”

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There has been a notable reduction in the number of serious crimes and traffic accidents, according to Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken.

“As we speak, we have seen a 29% reduction in serious crime alongside a 62.1% clear-up rate,” he said, commending the police ranks while addressing the Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) 186th Anniversary Awards Ceremony.

Hicken added, “As we boosted our proactive policing activities and social crime prevention initiatives, we also established regional and district intelligence communities in each police region and division. This has improved our ability to preempt and respond to emerging trends, threats, and crime.”

Meanwhile, there has also been a reduction in traffic accidents.

“Although we do not take any satisfaction in this because of the fatalities involved, we still managed to achieve a 4% decrease, which is attributed to the strategic efforts of the traffic department,” he stated.

Additionally, between January and May 2025, 889 e-tickets were issued through the Automated Speed Ticketing System.

“The deployment of speed cameras, real-time traffic monitoring, and data-driven interventions have significantly improved driver compliance,” Hicken noted.

The Automated Speed Ticketing System was introduced in April 2025.

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