APNU condemns gas station explosion, urges screening of migrant workers

The A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) has strongly condemned Sunday night’s explosion at the Mobil Gas Station on Regent and King Streets, Georgetown, which claimed the life of six-year-old Soraya Bourne and left several others injured.

In a statement issued on Monday, the opposition coalition expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and extended condolences to the Bourne family and all those affected. APNU also praised the swift response of first responders, including members of the Guyana Police Force, the Guyana Fire Service, staff of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, and citizens who assisted at the scene.

The party said it “condemns without reservation all acts of violence and terror,” stressing that such incidents have no place in Guyanese society. It urged that a transparent and professional investigation be conducted, with the involvement of relevant national security and intelligence agencies and external experts where necessary.

APNU outlined several key measures it believes should be implemented, including:

Publishing a full incident report outlining the coordination among law enforcement, the Fire Service, the Defence Force, and health agencies, and identifying any security lapses.

Providing financial and psychosocial support to victims and their families.

Strengthening protection of critical infrastructure such as fuel depots, power stations, and markets through updated safety audits and drills.

Implementing immediate screening and documentation of all migrant workers and non-nationals to ensure that every entrant is properly registered and verified, while protecting the rights of refugees and asylum seekers.

Releasing public updates on previous explosions at the East Ruimveldt Police Outpost and the Guyana Power and Light sub-station, including any potential links to the most recent incident.

Reconvening Parliament’s Security and Home Affairs oversight mechanisms to strengthen civilian scrutiny of national security preparedness.

Calling for calm and unity, APNU urged citizens to avoid speculation or prejudice against any group and to allow investigators to conduct their work based solely on evidence.

“The safety of our people must transcend partisan politics,” the statement said, reaffirming the coalition’s commitment to a “secure, cohesive, and resilient Guyana where every child can grow up free from fear.”