(Kaieteur News) – Public demonstrations expanded across several riverine and hinterland communities in Region One (Barima-Waini) yesterday, as residents in Port Kaituma, Mabaruma, Moruca, and Matthews Ridge took to the streets demanding the immediate resignations of Public Works Minister Juan Edghill and Minister within the Ministry of Public Works Deodat Indar.

The intensified protests coincided with the maritime confrontation at the mouth of the Pomeroon River, where Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guard ranks intercepted and blocked the boat of Leader of the Opposition Azruddin Mohamed from travelling to Moruca.

Responding to a video posted by Mohamed, taken in-front of the GDF’s Pomeroon base, the Guyana Defence Force issued an official press release confirming that Coast Guard personnel stationed at the Pomeroon Floating Base intercepted the passenger vessel carrying the Opposition Leader. The military explained that ranks were conducting routine vessel inspections in accordance with established procedures, which require all operators to register their journey at the base and present a valid Boat Master’s License, Vessel License, and Certificate of Inspection. According to the GDF, the vessel’s captain was unable to produce the required licenses and safety certification, leaving ranks with no choice but to direct the vessel back to Charity to secure the necessary documentation. The force maintained that such checks are standard practice along Guyana’s waterways to promote compliance, enhance maritime safety, and ensure all passengers are properly fitted with lifejackets throughout their journey.