Guyana is warning that anyone living in the South American country who participates in upcoming elections organized by neighboring Venezuela over a disputed region will be charged with crimes including treason. Guyana’s defense chief, Brig. Gen. Omar Khan, told The Associated Press Wednesday that Venezuelans living in Guyana who become involved in Sunday’s elections will be deported. The election is the latest step in a push to annex the Essequibo region, which Venezuela has long claimed as its own. The region represents two-thirds of Guyana and is rich in gold, diamonds, timber and other natural resources. It also is located close to massive offshore oil deposits.
