The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela is beginning to prepare for the infiltration of Special Forces from the Bolivarian National Armed Force (FANB) into Guyana. Future action against Brazil is uncertain.
(DefesaNet) In an escalation that intensifies geopolitical tensions in the region, Venezuela has reportedly deployed four Special Operations contingents in the town of Paraitepuy, on the border with Guyana and Brazil (see map).
Each of these contingents is made up of approximately 48 to 50 highly trained operators, comprising specialists from the Venezuelan Navy, Army and Air Force of the Fuerza Armada Nacional Bolivariana (FANB), totaling around 192 Special Operations operators. These specialized units are proficient in various disciplines, including weapons, communications, engines, explosives, first aid and intelligence.
In this tense context, it is important to note that the Venezuelan Special Operations contingents are operating in the Paraitepuy region without wearing regular uniforms, opting instead for civilian clothes. This strategic choice aims to give them greater capacity to infiltrate and operate discreetly, making it difficult for the Guyana Defense Forces (GDF) or outside observers to identify them.
Map 1 – Area of the Essequibo region shown by Google Maps in dashed form. In red is the town of Paraitepuy.
The use of civilian clothing by Venezuelan Special Operations operatives represents a tactical approach to minimize visibility and maximize the effectiveness of operations, confusing potential opposing forces and maintaining a less ostentatious presence in the region. This practice is a strategy adopted by specialized units in various parts of the world to carry out secret and covert operations.
The source of this information is a military officer from the Guyana Defense Forces, who, for security reasons, requested anonymity when disclosing details about the movement on the border. According to the informant, the motivation behind sending these contingents is the growing apprehension about a possible incursion into the territory of Essequibo, located in Guyana.
In addition, there are reports that Venezuelan Special Operations are conducting intensive training with local indigenous men and women. This collaboration aims to strengthen support for special operations, with an emphasis on resistance warfare tactics, the use of advanced communication devices and obtaining critical information. The indigenous people are being trained to perform essential functions, including monitoring the movements of Brazilian troops in the region and their means.
Map 2 – The town of Paratepuy, close to the traditional Mount Roraima, with the Raposa Serra do Sol Indigenous Land in front of it, practically cleared after the actions taken this year by FUNAI, IBAMA and the Armed Forces.
The inclusion of members of indigenous communities in these trainings is evidence of a broader strategy on the part of Venezuela, seeking a local partnership to expand its operational capabilities in support of unconventional warfare actions.
The Essequibo region has historically been disputed between Venezuela and Guyana, both of which claim sovereignty over the territory. Tensions have intensified in recent years, especially due to the vast reserves of oil and natural gas believed to be present in the area.
The Venezuelan military move in Paraitepuy is interpreted as a direct response to this territorial dispute, representing a clear sign that the Caracas government is determined to strengthen its position on the Essequibo issue. Geopolitical experts express concerns about this military escalation, fearing a regional response that could affect stability in South America.
It is important to note that, to date, there has been no official confirmation from the Venezuelan authorities about the deployment of these contingents. The Guyanese government is closely monitoring the situation and assessing the possible implications of this military move.
Faced with this scenario, the international community is watching with caution and urges the countries involved to seek diplomatic solutions to resolve their differences, avoiding a military escalation that could have devastating consequences for the region.
*** Translated by DEFCONPress FYI Team ***