A Guyana Defence Force helicopter has gone missing over the Essequibo region.

According to reports, the craft was engaged in a “border operation” at the time.

On board are three crew members and four passengers.

The GDF says it is carrying out searches, with the assistance of private-sector aircraft operators.

However, a report by News Room Guyana says the operation has been impacted by adverse weather conditions in the area.

This development comes in the midst of increased tension between Guyana and Venezuela over the Essequibo region.

Following a referendum on Sunday, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has ordered the state oil company to issue extraction licences in the region.

He also reportedly proposed that the National Assembly pass a bill making the area part of Venezuela.

Guyana however continues to maintain that the region is part of its territory, in keeping with the 1899 Arbitral Award which established the land boundary between Venezuela and what was then British Guiana.