Guyana investigation into missing Surinamese duo sparks unrest

An investigation into the disappearance of two Surinamese nationals, Van Dalen Lorenzo (28) and Derryl Danillo (29), has led to legal proceedings and civil unrest in Guyana.

Jimol Murphy, the brother of US-sanctioned businessman Mark Cromwell, has been granted $1 million bail following charges related to the alleged abduction of the two men on August 29, 2026, at Rosignol, West Bank Berbice. Defense attorneys argued that there is currently no evidence to disprove Murphy’s alibi or to prove an offense was committed. The two men were last seen after arriving safely in Guyana and entering a vehicle.

The arrest and subsequent police actions triggered significant unrest in Vigilance, East Coast Demerara. Protesters reportedly blocked main thoroughfares with burning materials and set a truck on fire. During the disturbances, authorities encountered resistance while attempting to execute a search warrant at the Cromwell residence, and reports indicated that shots were fired. Investigations into both the disappearance of the Surinamese nationals and the civil disturbances are ongoing.