A Cuban truck driver, operating without a license, was taken into police custody in Guyana on Friday after being involved in a traffic accident that resulted in the deaths of two Indonesian nationals and injuries to four other foreign citizens, as reported by local media.
The accident took place at approximately 3:51 a.m. on the Timehri Public Road in East Bank Demerara. It involved the truck GAJ 3074 and minibuses BAH 6588 and BAF 1135, according to information from the Guyana Police, as covered by News Room Guyana and Demerara Waves.
The police identified the truck driver as a 36-year-old resident of Land of Canaan. Preliminary reports suggest he was driving south at high speed and allegedly veered southwest, colliding with minibus BAH 6588, which was traveling in the opposite direction.
The truck subsequently struck the second minibus, BAF 1135, which was following behind. Among its passengers were Indonesians Edy Ansyori Sukri and Ikomang Tedy Arsa Bantara Putra, who were pronounced dead at the scene.
Four other foreign nationals traveling in the vehicle were injured and transported to Diamond Regional Hospital, where they received medical treatment, according to police reports.
News Source Guyana identified the truck driver as a Cuban national, noting that he lacked a valid driving license. The report also stated that the truck, associated with a construction company, was uninsured and not licensed for road service.
The two deceased were reportedly part of a group of foreigners who had recently arrived in Guyana to work in the oil and gas industry, as per News Source Guyana.
The Cuban driver could face charges for causing death by dangerous driving, alongside other potential accusations. All three drivers involved were subjected to alcohol tests, which came back negative. They remain in police custody as the investigation continues.
Authorities searched for witnesses and security cameras in the vicinity but found none. The three vehicles involved suffered significant damage from the collisions.
This incident coincides with another involving a Cuban national in Guyana, which was also recently publicized.
Alex Jesús Gonzáles Beria, a 23-year-old Cuban worker, was discovered dead beneath two containers at a Muneshwers storage facility. Initial investigations suggest he was in a pit within the terminal area when the tragedy occurred.
The Cuban community in Guyana has also recently voiced concerns over violence. Last week, a Cuban resident of the country reported several assaults on fellow Cubans, stating that migrants were becoming frequent targets for crime.
Among the incidents highlighted was the case of a 49-year-old Cuban who was stabbed in the abdomen during a robbery in Georgetown, an event previously reported in local media.
Key Questions about the Fatal Guyana Accident Involving a Cuban Driver
What were the circumstances leading to the accident?
The crash occurred when the Cuban truck driver reportedly veered southwest at high speed, colliding with one minibus and subsequently a second one.
Who were the victims of the accident?
The victims included two Indonesians who died at the scene and four other foreign nationals who sustained injuries and were hospitalized.
What legal actions could the Cuban driver face?
The Cuban driver might be charged with causing death by dangerous driving, among other potential charges.