Guyana Opposition Calls For Thorough Probe Into Helicopter Crash That Killed Five GDF Soldiers
GEORGETOWN, Guyana – The parliamentary opposition has called for a thorough investigation into the accident that claimed the lives of five members of the Guyana Defense Force (GDF).
In a statement on Thursday, the oppositions said it was a sad day for the country “ it is with deep sadness in our hearts and anguish in our souls that we learnt that the missing GDF helicopter had crashed, and five brave Guyanese souls perished.”
“We extend our deepest condolences to the family of Lt Col. Michael Charles, Commanding Officer of the 1st Infantry Battalion, Colonel Michael Shahoud, Retired Brigadier Gary Beaton, Lieutenant Colonel Sean Welcome, and Staff Sergeant Jason Khan. We will forever honor these current and former army officers as genuine and brave sons of the soil who gave dedicated service and their lives in defense of our dear homeland, Guyana.”
‘Yesterday, from the moment we heard of the missing helicopter, all Guyanese hoped and prayed for the best outcome for the entire crew. Alas, it was not to be. Their services to their country and to their fellow citizens were needed elsewhere. May their spirits rest in peace! May they continue to fight the good fight!”
The opposition also sent well wishes to the surviving army officer, Lieutenant Colonel Andio Michael Crawford and Corporal Dwayne Jackson, a full and speedy recovery.
The opposition also expressed hope that the survivors and their families will have the full support of the GDF in particular, and the Government of Guyana in general, as they seek to overcome the trauma associated with the accident.
In making reference to the border conflict with Venezuela, the opposition assured the GDF officer corps and servicemen, of their support.
“At this moment when our country is under threat from abroad, we know you are standing resolute and brave, despite the loss of your comrades. Please be reassured of our support and appreciation of the great sacrifice you continue to make to defend our territorial integrity and sovereignty. For that we are eternally grateful.”
Meanwhile, late Thursday, the GDF said that the two surviving soldiers from Wednesday’s crash were at the crash site.
The Guyana Police Force in a statement said the survivors were being attended to by the rescue team while strenuous efforts are being made to have them and the bodies of five other servicemen flown to Georgetown.
In a separate statement, the GDF said two search and rescue-capable helicopters provided by Omni made three attempts to extract those at the crash site, with priority given to the two survivors.
“These efforts were, however, thwarted by the persistent severe weather over the site.”
A rescue team that went to the area early Thursday including medical personnel, was still at the site, providing the necessary support.
The GDF said the rescue and recovery operation will resume at the earliest opportunity on Friday.
