Injured Coast Guard rank receiving full care – GDF

…rejects claims of inadequate support

In light of social media reports which accused the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) of not adequately supporting injured Coast Guard Lance Corporal Shamar Calder, the Force on Friday condemns those reports to be inaccurate and serving as a disservice – both to the injured rank and the men and women who continue to serve and protect.
“Following an attack on May 29, 2026, the injured rank was medically evacuated to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), where he received immediate medical attention, and was admitted for observation.
He was subsequently placed under medical supervision and specialist follow-up care through both the GPHC and the GDF Medical Corps,” the GDF stated in a missive to the media.

Further, the release added that on August 1, 2026, the injured rank was readmitted to the GPHC, where the projectile lodged in his leg was surgically removed.
“He was discharged on August 3, 2026, and is currently on authorised sick leave. In addition to his physical treatment, he continues to receive psychological support through the GDF Medical Corps, while the relevant administrative processes concerning his welfare and that of his family are being addressed,” the GDF added.
The Force stated that it remains committed to the care, welfare, and recovery of its personnel, particularly those injured in the line of duty, and will continue to provide the necessary support throughout their recovery and rehabilitation.
It was reported that Lance Corporal Shamar Calder and a team of GDF Coast Guards came under attack by Venezuelan troops while carrying escorting civilian vessels from Macapa to Eteringbang along the Cuyuni-Mazaruni border. During the attack, Calder Lance was shot to his leg.