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Accident – Death – Obituary News :
The Ministry of Labour Investigates Fatal Accident in Cowing Backdam, Upper Mazaruni River
The Ministry of Labour’s Occupational Safety and Health Department is currently conducting an investigation into a tragic incident that occurred due to a land caving at Cowing Backdam, located in the remote Upper Mazaruni River region of Guyana, specifically in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).
The victim of this unfortunate accident has been identified as 60-year-old Bertram Willie, a dredge owner hailing from Wisrock Housing Scheme in Linden, Region Ten (Upper Demerara-Berbice).
According to preliminary findings, on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, at approximately 12:45 hrs, Mr. Willie was operating his dredge at the Cowing Backdam worksite when a section of land unexpectedly collapsed into the river. This sudden occurrence resulted in him being knocked into the water.
Upon hearing the alarm raised, nearby miners rushed to the scene and discovered Mr. Willie motionless, trapped underwater by a tree stump. With the help of a nearby dredge, his lifeless body was retrieved from the water and then transported to the Imbaimadai Health Post.
Despite efforts to save him, Bertram Willie was pronounced dead upon arrival at the health post. Subsequently, his body was flown to Georgetown for further examination, which revealed that the cause of death was asphyxiation due to drowning.
Collaborative Investigation Underway
The investigation into this tragic incident is being led by Mr. Naipaul Persaud, an Occupational Safety and Health Officer from the Ministry of Labour, in conjunction with Mr. Sekou Walters, a Senior Mining Engineer from the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC).
The Honourable Minister of Labour, Mr. Joseph Hamilton, MP, has expressed deep concern about the rising number of workplace injuries and accidents. He extends heartfelt condolences to the families, colleagues, and friends of those affected by this unfortunate event.
Emphasis on Workplace Safety
With Occupational Safety and Health Month approaching, the Occupational Safety and Health Department reiterates the importance of adhering to workplace health and safety regulations to mitigate the risk of accidents. The Ministry’s investigation into this incident remains ongoing as they strive to uncover all relevant details.
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