By Mark DaCosta- In a shocking incident, an elderly woman has been brutally murdered in her home, raising serious concerns about domestic violence and public safety.
The tragic case involves 89-year-old Lackandai Tamessar, a resident of Ogle Airstrip Road, East Coast Demerara. Authorities believe the crime occurred sometime between the late afternoon of December 26, 2025, and the early afternoon of December 30. Reverting to the grim reality, Ms. Tamessar was last seen alive by a relative during a visit, who then returned on the 30th to find her lifeless body, marred by multiple stab wounds. The police have since detained the victim’s 88-year-old husband for questioning, marking a distressing turn in this tragic tale.
This harrowing episode underscores a grim reality in our society, particularly as the latest statistics from the Guyana Police Force (GPF) reveal alarming trends in domestic-related violence. 2025 has marked a year of stark contrasts, as serious crime rates have reached a decade-low while domestic homicides have tragically surged. Reports indicate a startling 100 percent rise in domestic murders, with 26 fatalities recorded by year-end compared to just 13 in 2024.
Despite the overall decline in serious crime — which has fallen to 801 reported incidents — domestic homicides represent a worrying anomaly that demands immediate attention. The data reveals that Region Four, encompassing Georgetown and its adjacent areas, has seen the highest rates of serious crime. This is particularly troubling as the government touts success in reducing crime rates, all while the tragic rise in domestic violence victims continues to proliferate.
Additionally, the GPF has noted a noteworthy increase in male victims coming forward, with 333 men formally reporting domestic violence cases by October 2025. While women still represent 80 percent of domestic violence victims, the rising number of men seeking help signals a shifting landscape that demands deeper examination and understanding. The hotline dedicated to domestic violence, known as the 914 Helpline, continues to receive upwards of 10,000 calls each year, indicating a pressing need for support and intervention for those in crisis.
In a move to address these alarming trends, the government recently implemented the Family Violence Act 2024, replacing the previous Domestic Violence Act. This new legislation expanded protections to cover all family members, not just intimate partners. However, while these legal changes offer some hope for combating violence, the reality on the ground remains grim, as illustrated by the tragic case of Ms. Tamessar.
It is worth questioning whether our current administration is adequately prioritising the safety of its citizens. On the one hand, it appears the authorities are making strides in addressing domestic violence through new laws and policies. Yet, on the other, the evidence points to an ever-worsening situation that raises doubts about the effectiveness of these measures.
The brutal reality is that behind statistical reports lies the heartbreaking stories of lives lost and families shattered, highlighting the critical importance of vigilance in our collective fight against violence in all its forms.
