Minister Robeson Benn highlighted a growing concern over the number of Venezuelan nationals incarcerated in Guyana. He revealed that 49 Venezuelans are currently imprisoned for offenses including domestic violence, disorderly conduct, murders, and robberies.
The influx of Venezuelan migrants into Guyana, driven by economic and political instability in their home country, has presented new challenges for local authorities.
Minister Benn acknowledged these complexities, stating, “We have indeed a challenging issue in relation to Venezuelan migrants and those who may be forced into certain activities.”
He stressed the importance of addressing these issues while maintaining Guyana’s commitment to humanitarian principles. The Minister emphasized the need for enhanced vetting processes to ensure that migrants entering the country are doing so for legitimate reasons, while also mitigating potential security risks.
He noted that the government is working to strengthen border controls and improve screening mechanisms at points of entry.In addition to security concerns, Minister Benn discussed the government’s broader strategy for managing the prison population.
He reiterated the administration’s commitment to rehabilitation and reintegration programs aimed at reducing recidivism among all incarcerated individuals, including migrants.
“We want to reduce recidivism in the system… by ensuring that upon leaving the prison, individuals are skilled, trained vocationally, and can engage in lawful economic activities to support themselves and their families,” the Minister stated.
The increasing presence of Venezuelan nationals in Guyana’s prison system underscores the challenges associated with managing migration and its socio-economic impacts.
Guyana, as a host country, continues to face the dual task of addressing security concerns while providing opportunities for vulnerable populations to rebuild their lives.
Minister Benn’s remarks highlighted the government’s focus on balancing security measures with rehabilitation efforts to promote social stability and economic growth.
He also emphasized the importance of regional cooperation to address the root causes of migration and ensure that Guyana remains a safe and welcoming environment for all.
The government’s ongoing investments in prison reform, coupled with its efforts to strengthen border controls, reflect a proactive approach to managing the complexities of migration and crime in the country.
However, the growing number of Venezuelan nationals in the prison system serves as a reminder of the broader regional issues that demand collective solutions.
