Apaiqua Landing fire: 32-year-old arrested as Police probe blaze that destroyed 9 buildings

A 32-year-old man is currently in Police custody as investigators probe a massive fire that destroyed multiple homes and businesses at Apaiqua Landing, Middle Mazaruni River, Region Seven (Cuyuni- Mazaruni), leaving more than 20 persons displaced and millions of dollars in losses.

The Guyana Police Force on Sunday said the fire occurred between 22:30h and 23:30h on Friday at Apaiqua Landing and resulted in the destruction of nine buildings.
Police said a 32-year-old male of Grove Squatting Area, East Bank Demerara, has since been arrested and questioned as part of ongoing investigations into the blaze.
“The 32-year-old remains in police custody as investigations continue,” Police stated.
According to preliminary investigations, a 40-year-old businessman and miner of Mainstay/Whyaka Village, Essequibo Coast, reported that he was awakened after observing flames coming from a nearby unoccupied wooden structure.
An alarm was subsequently raised, and residents reportedly attempted to contain the blaze by using water pumps. However, the fire spread rapidly through the mining community, engulfing nearby buildings.
Police said several persons, including business owners, suffered significant losses as a result of the fire. The blaze left widespread devastation at the riverine community, destroying both residential and commercial properties and displacing more than 20 persons.
On Saturday, Home Affairs Minister, Oneidge Walrond and Natural Resources Minister, Vickram Bharrat travelled to the area to assess the damage and meet with affected residents.
The Government officials said they were dispatched to the community on the instructions of President Mohamed Irfaan Ali.
“The incident resulted in the destruction of nine buildings and displaced more than twenty persons,” Walrond stated during the visit.
“Our thoughts remain with the families and business owners impacted during this difficult time.”
The Home Affairs Minister said assessments were ongoing as authorities work to coordinate relief efforts for affected residents and business operators.
Investigations are ongoing.