GDF ranks dismissed amid rape allegations

The three ranks attached to the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), who were implicated in the alleged rape of an 18-year-old girl at Camp Stephenson, Timehri, East Bank Demerara, were dismissed from the force.

The GDF in a release to the media stated that the decision to dismiss the three ranks came in wake of the conclusion of the Board of Inquiry (BoI) which was convened to investigate the allegations.

Based on the findings and recommendations of the Inquiry, the Ranks were found to be, not only in contravention of the Security Standing Orders but also a number of other Standing Operating Procedures of the Force.

However, the matter is still seeking the attention of the Guyana Police Force. As matter of fact, one of the dismissed ranks was on Friday charged for rape when he appeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Winston Haynes, also known as “Carlos”, 24, was represented by attorney Dexter Todd who was successful in securing bail for his client in the sum of $600,000.

The case was called in-camera, hence the details of the charge are not known. Haynes will return to court on March 27.

Meanwhile, due to their dismissal, the ranks have lost their benefits accumulated while serving in the Guyana Defence Force. The rape allegation was levelled against the three men in January of this year.

The men reportedly collected the young lady while she was awaiting transportation along the Timehri Public Road and took her to the barracks where they committed the act after which they escorted her out of the compound.

The matter was reported to the Police and the hierarchy of the Guyana Defence Force. A BoI was established to investigate the matter. Guyana Times was told that the men contacted the victim to settle the matter.