Constant attacks by the notorious Syndicato gang have forced hundreds of Venezuelans to flee and seek refuge in Region One communities, putting the Region under severe financial pressure as authorities struggle to provide food and shelter.
The sudden influx of migrants in the region has also resulted in the increase of COVID-19 cases.
Regional Chairman Brentnol Ashley says the increase in migrants is of major concern to the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) as well as central government, disclosing that a high-level joint services team is currently in the area assessing the situation and that border patrols have since increased.
