One dead, another in custody after Lethem robbery

Police in Regional Division Nine are investigating an alleged armed robbery in Lethem in which the 18-year-old suspect was found dead with suspected gunshot injuries.

Dead is Edward Arjune, called “Black Spanish,” 18-years-old of Lethem, Central Rupununi.

According to Police Headquarters, the robbery occurred at about 14:00hrs on Tuesday at a business establishment in Lethem and involved a 27-year-old businessman of Tabatinga. Police said a 35-year-old man was also arrested in relation to the robbery.

Investigations revealed that the businessman was conducting business inside the store when two men entered. The police said one of them was reportedly armed with a handgun. The suspects allegedly approached the cashier area, pointed the weapon at the victim, and demanded cash.

The businessman complied and handed over Guyana and Brazilian currency amounting to approximately GYD 650,000. The suspects then escaped on a motorcycle operated by a third accomplice waiting outside.

Police were summoned immediately after and launched a search in the direction the men fled. During the pursuit, the suspects allegedly opened fire on the ranks, who returned fire before the men escaped.

Arjune was subsequently found with suspected gunshot wounds behind Plastic City, Bon Success, Tabatinga. He was pronounced dead on arrival at the Lethem Regional Hospital.