In the wake of a devastating fire that claimed the lives of 19 children at the Mahdia Secondary School dorm, Guyana’s Opposition Leader, Aubrey Norton has raised serious concerns over the presence of government personnel at the scene while a probe is underway.
Norton voiced his apprehensions during a recent appearance on a popular Trinidad-based show, where he revealed that ministers were photographed at the location sometime after the tragic event took place. Authorities later confirmed that the area had been designated as a crime scene, with suspicions growing that the fire was intentionally set.
The Opposition Leader expressed his worries that the presence of high-ranking officials at the scene might have compromised crucial evidence in the ongoing investigation. With DNA testing now playing a vital role in both identifying the deceased children and probing the suspected arson, Norton emphasized the need for an in-depth and comprehensive investigation.
Norton emphasized that only a thorough investigation will suffice in providing answers and justice for grieving families. He stressed that the steps taken to ensure a comprehensive probe must not be undermined or brought into disrepute by the presence of government officials at the crime scene.
The names of the victims have been confirmed as Eulanda Carter, Valerie Carter, Mary Dandrade, Martha Dandrade, Lisa Roberts, Nicholeen Robinson, Sherana Daniels, Andrea Roberts, Delicia Edwards, Ariana Edwards, Loreen Evans, Sabrina John, Belnisa Evans, Bibi Jeffrey, Natalie Bellarmine, Adonijah Jerome, Cleoma Simon, Tercell Thomas, and Shurlin Bellarmine. Fourteen youths tragically lost their lives at the scene, while five succumbed to their injuries at the Mahdia District Hospital. Fortunately, rescue efforts managed to save 20 students by creating openings in the north-eastern wall of the building.
