Satyadeow Sawh

Government officials are calling the killing a political assassination, while police said robbery was a possible motive.

Also killed in the attack were the minister's brother Rajpat Sawh, 62, his sister Pulmatie Persaud, known as 'Julie', 54, both Canadian citizens, and security guard, Curtis Robinson, 38.

Reports say that the armed men gained entry into the minister's premises by jumping over a southern fence, fatally shooting Robinson in the body in the process and injuring another security guard, Augu Khan, who was shot in his abdomen.

The men also shot and killed the minister's dog, then gained entry into the house through an open doorway, where they confronted the minister who was shot to his left leg, head and buttocks.

The gunmen then confronted Rajpat Sawh and Omprakash Sawh where they demanded cash and jewellery. Omprakash handed over GY$23, 000.

Flags fly at half-mast at Freedom House, the ruling party's headquarters

The gunmen then made the victims lie on the floor and discharged rounds at them, fatally wounding Rajpat and injuring Omprakash, who was hit in his left side. Pulmatie Persaud, who was in another room, was also fatally shot to her left side of her face.

The minister's wife, Sattie Sawh, told authorities that she survived the attack by hiding in a section of the house.

Police combed nearby canefields but up to late Saturday night there were no arrests.

Security forces say that the men used AK-47 guns in the attack, which they say are commonly used by criminal gangs and in drug-related executions in Guyana.

Sawh, who at one time served as Guyana's ambassador to Venezuela, was also the recipient of the Order of Francisco Miranda, First Class, award from the Republic of Venezuela and also received several community awards in Canada.

Countrywide, flags flew at half-mast and President Jagdeo said Guyana will observe a national day of mourning.