INITIAL indications after the fire that yesterday morning gutted the Ministry of Health complex on Brickdam, Georgetown point to arson.

At a press conference yesterday afternoon, President Bharrat Jagdeo said several incendiary devices (channa bombs or Molotov cocktails) were located in the compound and while investigations are continuing, it seems as though this was a deliberate act.

Reflecting the seriousness with which the government is taking the startling development, the President announced that after extensive discussions with the security forces, security will be intensified at all government facilities and other areas.

A $25M reward is also being offered for any information that could help law enforcement officials charge and prosecute those responsible.

We welcome the assurances by the President that no stone will be left unturned in going after the sick and depraved perpetrators.

There is enough initial evidence to conclude that dark mischief is once again afoot in this land and the law enforcement agencies must pull out all stops to get after those responsible and blunt their macabre designs.

The targeting of the Health Ministry for an apparent fire-bombing amid frenetic bids by some to stir street protests fit a pattern that is familiar to most Guyanese.

It recalls the destruction by fire of the Housing Ministry on Homestretch Avenue on June 15, 2001 and the fire at the Education Ministry, also on Brickdam, on May 2, 1999.

It is a clear attempt to create unease among citizens and must be nipped in the bud.

Above all, the situation calls for increased vigilance by the Joint Services, Community Policing Groups and others across the country.

All decent-minded and peace-loving citizens must be on the alert to ensure the dark days and the fear that once prevailed here are gone forever.

Why would any sane person target a Health Ministry, or any government or state agency dedicated to the service of all the people of this country for fire-bombing, if not to send a signal?

As Health Minister Dr. Leslie Ramsammy observed yesterday, “it is only a warped mind that would think of (targeting) a Ministry of Health”.

“If in fact it is arson and the Ministry of Health was targeted, it is sad; it is despicable because the Ministry of Health doesn’t belong to a political party or one group…this is the people’s property and provides services to anybody”, he said.

Democracy and the people’s right to choose those they want to govern the affairs of the country in a free and fair process were restored to Guyana in October 1992 only after a long and arduous fight.

That is the only accepted way into the corridors of government and those seeking other avenues marked by shadows of fear cannot be allowed to succeed.

The price of freedom is eternal vigilance and the law enforcement agencies have to once again show they can help Guyanese protect their hard-won gains.