Guyana: Concerns Raised Over Stranded Cattle in Guyana

Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed has raised concerns regarding the welfare of Brazilian cattle that are currently stranded at Ibini. He claims that several pregnant heifers have died and that others are trapped in trucks without adequate veterinary attention. Speaking from the site, Mohamed noted that he and others had been present for over two hours without seeing any veterinarians to check on the animals.

Despite a statement from the Ministry of Agriculture defending the cattle’s movement and outlining supposed safeguards, Mohamed reported that residents indicated more than 12 pregnant heifers had already died on the opposite side of the Berbice River. He mentioned that one animal died during a live broadcast, while five others appeared to be close to death. Additionally, he stated that two calves had been born inside the trucks while the animals remained confined.

The situation has sparked political debate, with the APNU and other opposition members questioning whether the animals were properly cleared for transport, if Ibini was their intended destination, and why no suitable barge was available to move the trucks across the river. WIN Executive Member Mark Goring has also called for urgent intervention from the Ministry of Agriculture and the Guyana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, describing the situation as animal cruelty.

Goring reported that nearly 14 or 15 animals had already died, with several others in critical condition. He noted that the cattle had been in Guyana’s jurisdiction for six days, and if the trucks were not moved that night, they would face a seventh day in poor conditions. He pointed out logistical issues at the landing, including a broken-down excavator and attempts to use a government vehicle to navigate through mud.

The shipment, which is estimated to involve about 300 animals valued at around G$100 million, is part of a broader controversy surrounding the government’s livestock importation program. The Ministry of Agriculture has previously stated that the cattle are part of the National Herd Expansion Programme and that they were legally procured, inspected, tested, and cleared before export from Brazil. However, Mohamed and Goring are now demanding immediate answers regarding the condition of the animals, the reported deaths, the absence of veterinarians, and the handling of the transfer to Ibini.

Source: hgptv.com