Man fatally shot at Cuyuni mining camp

The police in ‘F’ Division are probing the death of a man who was shot by a licensed firearm holder who he allegedly attacked last Thursday evening at Kartuni Backdam, Cuyuni River.

The dead man has only been identified as “Leon”. His age and address remain unknown.

The incident took place around 7pm last Thursday at a mining camp in the said area.

The suspect, who has been identified as a 27-year-old miner/businessman of Bartica was taken into custody and is assisting the police with investigations. His firearm has been lodged.

Investigations, this newspaper was told revealed that the suspect went to a shop in the area to use the internet. Whilst, there he learnt that a tree had fallen, blocking his path to return to his camp.

As a result, he spent the evening at the shop owner’s camp.

Reports are that the suspect had just finished setting up his hammock and was praying when “Leon” allegedly began to verbally abuse him. During the process, the now dead man also continuously hit an object around the camp. He was armed with a cutlass.

The owner of the camp then tried to calm him down. However, ‘Leon’ drew the cutlass and escaped from the shop owner. He then reportedly proceeded to attack the suspect who was still in the hammock.

In fear for his life, the suspect drew his licensed firearm and discharged a warning shot in the air to scare ‘Leon’ off. However, ‘Leon’ continued the attack which forced him to discharge three other rounds, one of which struck ‘Leon’ in his chest.

The police were summoned.

Four spent shells was recovered at the scene.