Protests Erupt in Guyana Over Death of 11-Year-Old Adrianna Younge

Protests erupted outside the Georgetown Public Hospital as pathologists conducted an autopsy on 11-year-old Adrianna Younge, found dead in a hotel pool. Demonstrators demanded justice, while political leaders called for independent investigations into police actions. Significant changes within the police force have been initiated in light of public outcry.

GEORGETOWN, Guyana (CMC) – Tensions rose on Monday as protesters gathered outside the Georgetown Public Hospital mortuary. They blocked a portion of Middle Street while three forensic pathologists, brought in from abroad, conducted an autopsy on 11-year-old Adrianna Younge. This young girl was found dead in a hotel pool last Thursday in Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo.

Chanting slogans and beating drums, the demonstrators demanded justice for Younge, whose tragic death has deeply affected communities across Guyana. A CT scan had been performed on her body before she arrived at the GPH mortuary. The autopsy is expected to take over four hours, according to the attending doctors.

Two forensic specialists, Dr. Glenn A. Rudner and Dr. Shubhakar Karra Paul, were commissioned by the Guyanese government to lead the autopsy alongside Dr. Gary L. Collins, Chief Medical Examiner of Delaware, who was brought in by Younge’s family. The family also requested Dr. Caleb McCloggan, an endocrinologist, to witness the autopsy.

At a press briefing, Dr. McCloggan stated, “At 12:30 (local time) they will start the process.” He urged the protesters to remain patient, emphasizing the need to respect other patients receiving care in the hospital.

In parallel, Opposition legislator Amanza Walton-Desir has called for an urgent debate in the National Assembly regarding a petition for an independent investigation into the Guyana Police Force’s actions following Younge’s death. Walton-Desir highlighted the importance of addressing public concerns.

However, Speaker of the House Manzoor Nadir indicated the petition could not yet be debated due to its recent submission, which coincided with the Assembly’s session. He explained that all petitions must first undergo a review by the Clerk.

The petition demands an investigation led by international entities, the temporary removal of the Police Commissioner, and comprehensive reforms to restore public trust in law enforcement.

In the aftermath of Younge’s death, significant changes have occurred within the Guyana Police Force. Assistant Commissioner Khalid Mandall was administratively reassigned, and three officers were suspended under close arrest. The hotel owner and staff have also faced questioning. Subsequently, the hotel and a related property were set on fire, intensifying the ongoing unrest.

In summary, the tragic case of Adrianna Younge has sparked widespread protests and calls for justice in Guyana. The community’s demands for an independent investigation and accountability from the police underscore the public’s anguish over the handling of this sensitive incident. With several officials reassigned and community outrage evident, it remains critical to monitor the developments as they unfold in response to this heartbreaking event.

Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com