INVESTIGATORS from the Guyana Police Force and the Civil Aviation Authority are probing a security incident concerning an aircraft at the Bartica airstrip on Monday. The incident, which involves an Air Services Limited (ASL) Cessna 206 Aircraft bearing registration number 8R-ZOM, was described as an “unlawful interference”.

“The incident occurred at the Bartica Airstrip at approximately 09:00hrs on Monday; ASL is reportedly taking this incident very seriously. There was no harm or escalation in the incident; the pilot, passengers and aircraft returned from Bartica to Ogle Airport safely. The matter is presently being investigated by ASL’s internal security and safety departments. Also, the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority was notified of the incident,” the GPF’s Corporate Communications Unit (CCU) Director, Mark Ramotar noted.

Reports indicate that while the pilot of the Cessna aircraft was awaiting the arrival of his passengers at the airstrip, he was approached by three men who tried to compel him to fly the aircraft with them onboard to a destination of their choice.

When the unarmed men came to realise that the pilot was not complying with their instruction, they left the scene after threatening him.
The pilot subsequently made contact with the police, as passengers began arriving for the flight.

According to ASL in a statement, a report was made to the Bartica Police Station, and the cops stationed there responded immediately by providing security for the aircraft and its occupants.
“The Guyana Police Force is presently investigating the matter, and ASL is fully cooperating with them,” the company said in its statement.