One in custody for robbing money changer

A 35-year-old money changer/businessman of Ann’s Grove, East Coast Demerara (ECD) was on Friday evening robbed while plying his trade at America and Longden Streets, Georgetown.

Police said the victim was plying his trade on America Street while seated on his motorcycle when two suspects rode up on a black XR motorcycle from an eastern direction. The pillion rider then dismounted, approached the victim, pointed a handgun in his direction and demanded money.

The armed suspect then allegedly relieved the victim of $200,000, which was in his right-side pants pocket.

The suspect reportedly discharged three rounds in the victim’s direction while leaving. As a result, a 41-year-old maintenance worker of Diamond Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara, who was nearby, was struck to his right leg.

Further enquiries disclosed that the moneychanger, who is a licensed firearm holder, discharged two rounds and shot the pillion rider, who fell to the ground. However, he got up and escaped south along Longden Street, while the rider escaped west along America Street.

The injured bystander was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, where he is receiving treatment. His condition is listed as stable.

Police subsequently found an injured 24-year-old male of Tucville, Georgetown, seen receiving medical attention under guard. His condition is also listed as stable.

Two .32 spent shells and three 9mm spent shells were recovered from the scene and lodged for examination. Checks are being made for the other suspect.

Investigations are ongoing.