By Mark DaCosta- An alarming incident unfolded yesterday in Georgetown, sending shockwaves through the community as police investigate an attempted armed robbery involving an 81-year-old man. This attempted crime highlights the troubling rise of violence against the elderly and poses serious questions about the safety of our citizens.
At approximately 10:15 a.m. on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, the pensioner, accompanied by his 79-year-old brother, was targeted while walking along Brickdam, right in front of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. Preliminary reports indicate that as they were heading towards some official business, they were approached by two young males on bicycles. One of the assailants, armed with a knife, allegedly tried to snatch a haversack from the elderly man in broad daylight.
This frightening encounter escalated quickly when a 25-year-old licensed firearm holder, witnessing the attack, intervened by discharging his weapon, the gunfire struck one of the suspects — a 13-year-old boy — who was hit in the buttocks during the chaotic scene. The injured teen fell to the ground near a nearby supermarket while his accomplice managed to escape. Police officers arrived promptly, apprehending the injured youth and transporting him to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, where he remains under police guard, receiving treatment for his injuries.
The incident raises alarming concerns about the safety of our elderly population, particularly in urban areas like the capital. The audacity of such a crime, especially committed by a minor, speaks volumes about the grim realities facing our nation. The rise in violent behaviour among youth correlates strongly with a myriad of societal issues — from inadequate education and a lack of positive role models to the influences of crime in their surroundings. This raises the question of what measures our government is taking to combat this worrying trend.
Robbery, as defined by the laws of our nation, is a serious offence. Under the Guyanese Criminal Law, specifically Section 222, robbery is classified as the unlawful taking of someone’s property through the use of force or threat of force. The potential penalties for such crimes are severe, reflecting the seriousness with which our legal system views infractions against individuals, particularly those most vulnerable. The law must serve as a deterrent, yet the repeated occurrence of violent crimes, especially against the elderly, suggests that current measures may not be sufficient.
As the investigation into this incident progresses, it is essential to consider its broader social implications. The fact that a child is involved raises critical questions about the social fabric of our communities. What drives such young individuals to resort to violence? Are they faced with situations so desperate that they feel there are no other options?
There is a crucial need for intervention at various levels — families, schools, and community organisations have a role to play in redirecting youth away from crime. Moreover, the government must allocate more resources to programmes aimed at empowering young people and instilling in them a sense of responsibility and community.
Amid these grim realities, there appears to be a glaring absence of effective policy responses from our governing bodies, particularly under the current administration’s leadership. The issues of crime and public safety seem to be falling through the cracks, and it is the responsibility of those in power to address this crisis head-on. When incidents like this occur, they highlight an urgent need for reform and proactive measures to protect our vulnerable populations.
One has to ponder, says an analyst, how a child can become embroiled in such a violent act. It reflects a broader societal failure, where the principles of respect and care for the elderly are eroding. In a nation that prides itself on strong family values and community cohesion, allowing a generation to view violence as an acceptable solution to their problems is a disheartening development.
As we await further developments from the police regarding this incident, it is imperative for the public to reflect on our collective responsibility to foster a secure environment for our elderly citizens. The repercussions of a failing system go beyond the immediate victim of this robbery attempt; they touch the very essence of our values as a nation. We must advocate for positive change and push for necessary reforms to ensure the safety and dignity of all individuals, especially our elders, who deserve protection and respect.
