Georgetown, Guyana – President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has issued a strong warning to individuals using social media to encourage violence, threaten citizens or organise criminal activities, declaring that anyone found responsible will face the full force of the law.
In a national security address delivered through social media on Thursday, the President said the Government and security agencies were closely monitoring inflammatory statements circulating online, including those connected to ongoing legal proceedings.
He disclosed that information gathered by local authorities, in collaboration with international partners, points to possible links between certain online statements and planned criminal activities targeting individuals, public and private property, and essential services.
Investigations Underway Into Suspected Criminal Activities
President Ali said investigations are actively being conducted to identify the individuals involved and establish their respective roles in planning, directing, financing or carrying out criminal acts.
He warned that authorities would pursue not only those directly involved in executing illegal activities but also individuals suspected of organising, funding or encouraging them.
The President identified several activities that could attract serious criminal charges, including burning tyres, obstructing public roads, sabotaging infrastructure, threatening public officials and private citizens, and using social media platforms to incite violence.
He said such offences could fall under relevant provisions of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, including Section 309A, as well as applicable terrorism-related legislation where the necessary legal requirements are established.
Freedom of Expression Must Remain Peaceful
While issuing the warning, President Ali reaffirmed that the Government respects citizens’ constitutional rights to freedom of expression and peaceful protest.
However, he stressed that these freedoms do not provide protection for violence, intimidation, destruction of property or criminal incitement.
The President urged citizens not to be influenced by calls for unlawful activities and encouraged them to exercise their democratic rights responsibly.
He emphasised that peaceful protest and the expression of differing views remain important elements of democracy, but any attempt to use them as a cover for criminal conduct would not be tolerated.
Guyana Strengthens National Security Measures
President Ali said Guyana’s national security arrangements are supported by cooperation with trusted international intelligence partners and continued investments in the country’s security infrastructure.
He assured the public that the Joint Services and intelligence agencies remain vigilant and are taking coordinated steps to address potential threats.
The President also called on citizens to remain alert, maintain peace and cooperate with law enforcement agencies by reporting suspicious or illegal activities.
He reiterated that the Government would not allow organised criminal networks, violence or sabotage to threaten national security, economic development or the safety of citizens.
The President maintained that all credible threats would be investigated and individuals found responsible for criminal activities would be held accountable in accordance with the law.