After criticising maritime safety measures: US-sanctioned LOO caught travelling to Region 1 in vessel without licence, certification

After weeks of being critical of the maritime administration and its handling of safety on Guyana’s waterways following the MV Barima tragedy on July 18, United States-sanctioned and indicted Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed and his team were caught travelling to Region One (Barima-Waini) on Wednesday om a vessel without proper licences and certification.

The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) has since confirmed that Coast Guard ranks stationed at the Pomeroon Floating Base stopped and inspected a vessel transporting Mohamed along with others, noting that it is part of routine operations.
The GDF also explained that the vessel’s captain failed to produce required licences and certification for its voyage to Region One.
However, despite knowing why he was stopped and the failure to produce the licence, Mohamed released a video on his Team Mohamed’s Facebook page on Wednesday, complaining of being stopped by Coast Guard ranks while on route to Region One where he planned to engage in protests. Accompanying him on the boat were Members of Parliament (MPs) Tabitha Sarabo-Halley and Dawn Hastings.
GDF, however, confirmed that the passenger vessel destined for Moruca, Region One was stopped and inspected in accordance with established procedures, which require all vessel operators to register their journey with the Floating Base and present a valid Boat Master’s Licence, Vessel Licence, and Certificate of Inspection before proceeding.
According to the GDF, the vessel’s captain was unable to produce the required licences and certification. As a result, the vessel was directed to return to Charity to obtain the relevant documentation before resuming its voyage.
The GDF noted that these routine inspections are part of the Coast Guard’s efforts to promote compliance with maritime regulations, enhance vessel safety, and strengthen security along Guyana’s waterways.
In this regard, the GDF encouraged all boat operators to ensure their documentation is valid and that all passengers are provided with and properly fitted with lifejackets throughout their journey.