− 5 suspects in Police custody

Thieves on Monday evening broke in to the home of popular businessman Kumar Ramdeo at Hoff Van Aurich Village on the Essequibo Coast, and carted off approximately $1.3 million in jewellery and other items.

The incident reportedly occurred around 16:30h on Monday while the family was out.

According to the businessman’s wife, Wendy Ramdeo, she secured her home on Monday afternoon before leaving with her family to go to the supermarket to do some shopping. She related that upon their return at around 18:30h, they noticed that their house lights were on.

The woman said she immediately knew that something was amiss and they quickly alerted the neighbourhood. Residents then flocked around the premises; however, by the time they entered the home, the thieves had already left.

The thieves reportedly gained entry into the Ramdeo home by using a ladder to break a part of the ceiling and using their feet to stamp the said ceiling down. When Guyana Times visited the scene, footprints were still visible. The home was ransacked, but the family could not say for sure what was taken. The wife related that no cash was missing. She said the thieves also carted off groceries and the meal she had cooked earlier.

After the discovery, a report was made to the Suddie Police Station and according to relatives, the Police took three hours to respond. Detectives visited the scene and uplifted fingerprints. Up to press time, five persons were in Police custody.

According to the distraught family, it was the second robbery for the year; during the first incident, bandits stole poultry and other equipment; however, the family never made a report. Although nothing was taken from their furniture store, a cutlass was reportedly lost.

Meanwhile, several other residents from the area are fearful for their lives, as there have been several break-ins. One resident from the area was reportedly robbed on Monday night. Residents are, therefore, calling for Police to be more visible in the area and increased Police patrols, especially during the Christmas season.