Berbice Times

Monday, January 27, 2014

GUYANA

Berbice

Berbice ranks round up, charge home invaders

See page 3 Issue No. 009

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See page 3

See page 7

Home boy Pooran Seeraj copped the Chutney Soca Monarchy just after midnight on Saturday at the Bath Settlement Community Centre ground

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Corentyne residents Double murder accused Beltless champ to defend super middletaking fight to bandits not fit to stand trial weight title in Berbice Page 2

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MonDAY, January 27, 2014

The Spinglands Magistrate’s Court

Forty-year-old on assault charge

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orty-year-old Mark Crawford of Number 78 Village, Corentyne, pleaded not guilty to an assault charge when he appeared before Magistrate Robindranauth Singh at the Springlands Magistrate’s Court.

It was alleged that on January 3, at Number 79 Village, he assaulted Simon Vanderstoop.

Attorney Charrandas Persaud represented the accused and told the court that his client did not assault the complainant but rather he pushed him during a confrontation. After hearing the case, the magistrate ordered that Crawford return to court on February 14.

Rice farmer on bail for assaulting wife

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rice farmer made his first court appearance at the Springlands Magistrate’s Court for assaulting his wife.

Twenty-five-year-old Charles Ward of Number 51 Village, Corentyne, pleaded not guilty to the charge which read that on January 15, at Springlands Corentyne, he assaulted Christel Harry. The accused, who was unrepresented in court, was placed on $5000 bail

by Magistrate Robindranauth Singh and he is expected to return to court on February 14.

Friends land in court after fighting over girl

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wo friends appeared before Magistrate Robindranauth Singh at the Springlands Magistrate’s Court; both charged with wounding each other.

Parmeshwar Surajbally and his friend Harrinarine Kathoon pleaded not guilty to the charge during their arraignment in court. The court heard that on January 12 at Crabwood Creek, Corentyne, they wounded each other during an altercation.

After the charge was read to the two accused, they both decided to drop the charge against each other. The magistrate then asked both accused what were they fighting for and in response, they explained that they were embroiled in a fight over a young woman they both liked in their community. The magistrate later dismissed the case against the duo and placed them on a bond to keep the peace for one year.

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mid an upsurge in criminal activities along the Upper Corentyne Coast, residents who are fed up with the dithering by police have formed a vigilante group to counter the attacks.

Residents related that bandits would pounce on them as early as 18:00h and this started during the holiday season. During the early part of December, Ramlan Singh, a rice farmer of Number 56 Village was the first victim of burglary, when three bandits invaded his home. He recalled, he was sleeping when someone woke him and said, “Daddy wake up we come for the money”.

He said when he got up, the bandits tied his hands and then proceeded to wake his wife after which the bandits demanded cash and jewellery.

Singh added that they handed over an undisclosed sum of cash and jewellery. Not satisfied with that, Singh said the bandits then asked for the chest with money to which he said, “I give you’ll all the money already”.

On December 30, 2013, the bandits struck once more; this time on supermarket proprietors Dindiyal and Chandinee Jagdeo.

Dindiyal Jagdeo recalled that around 23:30h, he and his two grandchildren were watching television, when he saw five masked men armed with guns, cutlasses and a crowbar enter his home via the veranda.

He said he mistook the bandits for black clothes police, asking them what they were doing in his house to which the bandits shouted “turn yo face”. After the three men entered Jagdeo’s home, they proceeded to open the door of the house to let the others in. Chandinee Jagdeo recalled that she was sleeping and was awakened to the sound of someone saying “they come for the money and gold”.

She said she jumped up trembling, adding that the bandits then lifted her out of bed and took her to the bottom flat of the home.

The elderly woman added that the bandits asked for her son, however, at that time, she was unaware that her son was in the upper flat taking a shower.

The woman recounted, while downstairs she heard a gunshot and thought her son was shot. She noted as the bandits continued to demand cash, she told them she will give them everything and handed over an undisclosed sum of cash and jewellery to the men. She added that it was money from years of saving.

Meanwhile, during the ordeal, one of the bandits demanded that she give him the phone cards that were in the black plastic bag. She recalled that as she said “yes”, the man ran to the direction of the drawer with the cards and took them out. At that moment, she remembered, the day before a man had purchased phone cards from the shop. She explained that the man had seen her take the cards from the black plastic bag that was in a drawer. It was then she suspected him to be one of the robbers.

Gang leader After the 30-minute ordeal, the bandits were instructed to leave by the gang leader who then escaped by the back fence while firing shots.

The family is also disappointed with the slow response from the police.

They said when they made contact with the Number 51 Police Station; they were told by a female that they had dialled the wrong number. They added, neighbours who called were told that police officers are out on patrol or the vehicles are not working.

The family added, that after noticing a police patrol vehicle, they stopped them and related the ordeal after which an investigation was launched.

According to residents, about two weeks ago, between 18:30h and 19:00h, two men fired two rounds on a group of residents.

After noticing the suspects, residents gave chase, with the suspected perpetrators continuing to fire shots.

One resident who asked not to be named, recalled that a few residents were on the road when one of them noticed three men standing next to a fence a few feet away.

Suspecting them to be bandits, one of the men chased after the suspects and that is when the fleeing men fired several rounds and escaped in a white Toyota Raum.

Residents are of the view that from the description given by victims of robberies, it seems as if it is one group of persons carrying out the attacks. The description given by residents state that the criminals are in groups of about five men who are masked and armed with guns, knives, cutlasses and a crow bar.

Ramlan Singh, a resident and robbery victim recommends that in order for the community to return to its normal state, a strong patrol team should be created.

“The team should get police and residents to conduct patrols directly in these areas. They should also have proper communication networks so if something happen, they can respond fast,” Singh said. He noted that the force should be better equipped to catch these bandits.

Firearm licences Meanwhile, two victims of an attempted break in related their experience.

Devi Sugrim, of Number Nought Village, Corentyne Coast recalled that on two occasions, bandits attempted to enter her home, but they were unsuccessful. She recalled that the first attempt was around 19:00h a few nights before Christmas. The family came in from the streets around 18:30h.

Sugrim said she was about to shower when she noticed the family dog barking uncontrollably. Not long after, she said she heard her daughter yelling for thieves. It was then, the mother said she saw her husband scaling their fence and running towards the road. The gunmen, after noticing the man running for safety, fired a round at him. It was stated that the round fired missed her husband.

Recounting the second attempted break in, Sugrim said it occurred on December 27. According to her, the family were in bed when she heard a noise. Sugrim stated that the constant robberies in the neighbourhood are very frightening. She explained that her children are traumatised. “At nights we cannot sleep or we sleep at neighbours’ homes just because we want to feel at ease and safe”, she disclosed.

Residents have suggested that the Guyana Police Force should issue a few more firearm licences to people in the area.

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MonDAY, january 27, 2014

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By Shiran Ramnauth

The Central Police Station

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olice in Berbice have increased their anticrime efforts with a number of raids being carried out across the division.

During the raids ranks were able to recover a number of stolen articles and also secured convictions in court against the perpetrators.

On January 14, a detective with a team of police ranks conducted a raid on the home of Ameer Ali Mohammed called “Potter Whiskey” or “Amo” of Lot 23 Adelphi Village, Canje and a quantity of electrical appliances were found.

Recovered

Some of the articles have been identified by Poopaul Dhoraj, a businessman of Fryrish Village, Corentyne as being his property.

Mohammed was charged with break and enter and larceny committed on Dhoraj between January 13 and 14.

Meantime, Eon Mickle, 20, called “Madman” of Patrick Dam, Angoy’s Avenue, New Amsterdam was also arrested on January 10 and charged on January 20 with robbery under arms committed on Chiwat Chin at Lim Kang Restaurant, Main and Chapel streets, New Amsterdam. He had allegedly stolen a quantity of articles and cash valued $705,000. Mickle was not required to plead, and based on the facts presented in court, bail was refused and he is to return to court on February 2 for report and statement.

Deon Fraser, 24, a labourer of Lot 77 Adelphi Village, and Charram Badam, 24, called “Pouchie” of Goed Bananen Land, East Canje, were arrested by a police rank on January 16 and charged on January 20 with break and enter and larceny

committed on the home of 35-year-old Zaheer Sabudin, a businessman. During the robbery, cash and gold jewellery valued $505,000 was stolen. The defendants were not required to plead and were placed on $300,000 bail each and are to appear at the Reliance Magistrate’s Court on February 5.

Another raid was carried out on the home of Kwami Bhagwandin, 37, an unemployed resident of Ithaca Village, West Bank Berbice and a quantity of electrical appliances were found including a video camera, and a HP laptop computer. Both items were later identified

by Christopher Holder of Vrymens Erven as being his property.

Hence Bhagwandin was later charged with break and enter committed on Christopher Holder which allegedly occurred on July 31, 2013. He is presently on remand. Meanwhile, another laptop computer was also been found in the possession of Bhagwandin and was identified as belonging to Rishiram Lakeram, a fireman of Glasgow New Housing Scheme, whose home was broken into, between December 31, 2013 and January 4.

More charges

Charges for that offence are yet to be laid against the accused.

In the Upper Corentyne District, the police have also been active, resulting in the arrest of Kevin Padmore, 20, of Lot 27 Duke Street, Corriverton and Zahir Ward, 18, also called “Mickey” and “Bob Cat” of Race Course, Springlands. The two men were arrested on January 17 and charged with break and enter and larceny com-

mitted on Carlton Williams of Princetown, Corriverton, which resulted in the complainant losing articles valued $16,000. The first accused, Padmore, appeared before Magistrate Robindranauth Singh at the Whim Magistrate’s Court and was granted bail in the sum of $40,000, while the second accused, Ward, did not appear in court. The case was postponed for February 14.

Serial robber

Prem Narine, 18, called “Toney” of Lot 15 Princetown, Corriverton, was arrested on January 17 and charged on January 20 with robbery under arms committed on Rajue Mohammed at Springlands, during which one gold chain valued $100,000 and one HTC cellphone valued $140,000 were stolen. He was further charged for robbery under arms committed on Devika Sookkhnaryan on October 17, 2013 at Springlands during which a purse valued $2000, one BlackBerry cellular phone valued $20,000 and $18,000 in cash were stolen. He appeared at the Whim Magistrate’s Court on January 20, before Magistrate Robindranauth Singh, who denied Narine bail. The case was transferred to the Springlands Magistrate’s Court for February 14 for report. Narine was further charged along with Mohammed Sadiq Hussain, age 18 years of Dukestown, Corriverton for robbery under arms committed on Ahman Hannif of Princetown on January 17, during which $25,000 was stolen. Bail was refused by Magistrate Singh and Hussain is to return to the Springlands Magistrate’s Court on February 14.

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fficials at the Berbice Anti-Smuggling Squad (BASS) said goods and other types of smuggling in the Upper Corentyne area are not as prevalent as before and they credited this drop in the illegal trade to greater cooperation from affected businesses.

Courts Guyana Inc and several other Georgetownbased businesses were forced to close down their operations on the Corentyne Coast, owing to rampant smuggling of goods across the largely unmanned backtrack route to Suriname.

However, in an exclusive interview with Berbice Times, an official attached to BASS speaking under the condition of anonymity said that smuggling has decreased drastically in the region, although acknowledging that the issue will never die.

Cooperation

He said, however, because of the avid interest of businesses in their welfare, they have taken stock of any illegal activity and have been reporting any case to BASS. As such, the official said BASS has been able to respond and confiscate smuggled goods, and as well as carry out raids.

“When a businessman notices that his product is not selling as it used to and his colleague is selling the same for a lower price, then he takes note and informs us.

We then stake out and catch the culprit in the act, so because of businessmen input, we are now able to put pressure on smugglers and it is more manageable now,” the official asserted, while noting that although BASS has been making strides in re-

lation to the interception of illegally imported goods, it would be impossible to curb smuggling due to the closeness of the Guyana/ Suriname border.

“Ports of entry are all along the sea shore, from Number Seven, Canje, Manchester, Number 43, name it, throughout Crabwood Creek, all of these are ports of entry for smuggled goods. It is impossible to stop it completely, and as long as a man can make a profit when he smuggles, he will continue to do so by both taking and bringing illegal goods,” the official explained.

He said that smuggling is a way of life for some people but noted that contrary to what some may say; smuggling is not as rampant as it was years ago.

Major concern

The major concern for BASS now, the official stated, is the smuggling of tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, pesticides, home appliances and fish and shrimp into Guyana from Suriname.

The official said that fishermen too are sometimes affected but regarding the issue of home appliances, residents are no longer purchasing them as they are sold without a receipt and this is very risky, since if stolen or broken, they are without any form of ownership.

Meanwhile, in an invited

comment, President of the Upper Corentyne Chamber of Commerce Krishnand Jaichand acknowledged that indeed, smuggling has diminished. “Based on reports from the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), our revenue has increased tremendously, I would not say there is no smuggling but there has been a major decrease in that activity in the Upper Corentyne and I am hoping that this should be a level playing field throughout the country, so the same can be said for the market,” he stated.

Peeved

Mark Roopnarine, manager of AINLIM Berbice is of the view that although smuggling has reduced, it will always be an issue regardless of strides being made by BASS. He is peeved that smugglers are evading payment of customs duties, value added tax (VAT) and excise tax on imported goods as well as the payment of income taxes. He pointed out that due to illegal entry of all drugs used for agricultural purposes, especially cash crop and rice cultivation, it is of concern for his business as it ultimately sells at a cheaper price and affects the market. “This results in an unfair competitive advantage over importers who are complying with the country’s tax laws, but indeed no doubt about it, smuggling has decreased tremendously” he added.

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MonDAY, January 27, 2014

Members of the Crabwood Creek Rotary Club and recipients of the wheelchairs

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Fernando “Rakesh” Singh

s the popular saying goes “There are many fishes in the sea”, however, it seems that there was just not enough for everyone, as the family of Pooran “Sham” Mathoor strongly believes was the cause of his demise a little over two years ago.

The date was Saturday January 7, 2012 when Pooran, 39, of Cromarty Village and his employee Fernando “Rakesh” Singh, 17, of Bush Lot, both villages on the Corentyne Coast left for sea to return the following day.

They were supposed to moor at the Eversham Foreshore – the same port that they left at 14:00h the previous day – at approximately 03:00h and head straight to the market with their catch, as is the norm for the fisher folks of the area. However, they never showed, although relatives waited and thought that they were still at sea and would return a little later or with the next tide. However, as the time grew longer, they became more worried, fearing that something happened.

After enquiring from other fishing vessels that went out around the same time as Mathoor’s boat, and even some that left afterwards, had returned, the family decided to file a missing persons report on January 9, 2012 at the Whim Police Station a few miles away.

While there, a group of policemen came in and related that they just found a body at the Adventure foreshore and had taken it to Ramoo’s Funeral Home. Sabitree Singh, the wife of Mathoor then went to the parlour to

Pooran “Sham” Mathoor

see if the body the police had taken there was that of her husband, and when she arrived, her worst fear was confirmed. Singh was able to identify the badly decomposed and broken body as that of her husband by the clothing he was wearing.

A search was launched and the body of 17-year-old Fernando Singh was found the following day washed up at the Tain foreshore. His hands were bound behind his back and a rope was also tied to his feet. The boat was never recovered and is still missing to this day along with the engine and other equipment on board.

Mathoor, a father of three, was a sluice operator with the Whim Neighbourhood Democratic Council and a part-time fisherman, while his worker “Rakesh” was a school dropout who was pushed into the field of work early to earn a livelihood for his family after his father abandoned them.

The duo was considered very lucky as they would usually bring in a lot of fish, even more than the seasoned fisherfolk of the area. This, according to Mathoor’s wife, is the only motive behind their

murders that she can think of.

Who would commit such a heinous act, by going all out to beat, bind and dump the men overboard, leaving them helpless and to drown?

The families of the dead seamen are of the opinion that the pair would have been able to identify their attackers; as such, robbery was overlooked as a motive since their lives might have been spared.

Several men were arrested but no charges were laid as there was no concrete evidence to link any of the suspects to the murders. While it seems that it is common knowledge among the fisher folk who committed the crime, there is no evidence to substantiate same.

As the families recently observed the second death anniversary of their loved ones, they have since lost hope of anyone being charged and brought to court, but are optimistic that fate will have its final say and as Sabitree said “dead men tell no tales but God knows everything and those responsible will surely pay the price even if it takes a while”.

he Crabwood Creek Rotary Club made a presentation of over 50 wheelchairs to persons in need of the equipment throughout Regions Five and Six. This presentation exercise, which is said to have cost the organisation approximately $6.5 million, was conducted at the Rotary club’s office. According to the rotary club’s secretary Carmen Ally, this is the first of many programmes the club has planned for the first quarter of 2014. “We have invited 50 needy persons who are in need of wheelchairs…, however, we have contracts for the recipients to sign in event that the person dies, the chair would be returned in order to be given to someone else in need of a wheelchair” she said.

During 2013, the Crabwood Creek Rotary Club was able to complete several projects, some of which included a Christmas party for less fortunate children in the community.

“Recently we have had parties for several schools on the Upper Corentyne where over 170 students were fed and presented with gifts and other goodies... we were also

able to treat 45 senior citizen in the area, however, earlier in the year the club selected 11 schools in the region and distributed school uniforms for both boys and girl” Ally stated.

Meanwhile, several beneficiaries of wheelchairs disclosed how happy they are for the chairs, which they said would be of great assistance to them. Seventy-fouryear-old Totaram Dukhu of Crabwood Creek who was unable to be as mobile as he would have liked, due to constant pain in his foot, said he is thankful that he would be given a wheelchair from the rotary club.“This is four years now I can’t walk far, I have to take taxi… I been to all the doctors and I got no relief on the foot… if I walk too far, I will fall down… I want to thank God for getting me a wheelchair and I want to thank the rotary club for this opportunity” Dukhu said.

Another recipient, 51-year-old Mitramanie Narine who was not able to move around for almost two years said he suffers from arthritis and really appreciates the effort by the rotary club in providing him with a wheelchair. “Every time I

sleep and wake this foot does pain me, I went to the doctor and them seh I get arthritis so meh glad that me get one wheelchair to move about because it’s been a long time I been like this and the doctor tell meh that I have to do an operation and I don’t have the money to do it, so I’m happy for the chair” he added.

The funding for the wheelchairs was provided by the Rotary Foundation International, the Rotary Club of Simi Sunrise District 5240, and the Rotary Club of Georgetown, among others.

Berbice Times understands that the presentation of the wheelchairs is the first of many projects the Crabwood Creek Rotary Club has planned for 2014.

As the year progresses, the organisation is planning on starting a school feeding programme for less fortunate children from the Upper Corentyne district, the construction of a bus shed for the Number 59 Village Primary School and the distribution of computers to schools, among other projects for the next half of the fiscal year.

wo road contracts totalling in excess of $3.1 million have been signed between the New Amsterdam Municipality and Errol Angel, and will see long awaited road repair work being carried out.

A contract for $1.2 million will see a section of Charles Place being resurfaced while a second contract for $1.9 million will see work being done Contractor Errol Angel signing the to the main access road in document Bermine Housing Scheme.

The council will be supplying the materials for the Bermine Scheme project which will see 514 square yards of road work being done with eight drums of bitumen. Additionally, 20 tons of crusher run and 15 tons of stone will be used on the Bermine Scheme road.

At the signing of the contract at the New Amsterdam Town Council, Mayor

Claude Henry expressed the concerns of residents and urged the contractor to execute the projects in a timely manner. “We hope that the roads will be completed in the shortest possible time,” he urged.

Town Clerk Sharon Alexander explained that the Bermine Scheme project will see the filling of potholes and not the rehabilitation of the road surface. Residents of Bermine Housing Scheme were planning to picket the Town Council over the state of the road which was last rehabilitated five years ago. During 2013, the New Amsterdam Town Council under its road programme only carried out road repair works to one street. Pilot Street was completely resurfaced in 2013.

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MonDAY, january 27, 2014

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ouble murder accused Ravindranauth Mohanlall suffers from alcohol withdrawal syndrome and as such must receive treatment before he is capable of standing trial.

Head of the National Psychiatric Hospital, Dr Creajah Mayda revealed these details to the court when she was asked to evaluate Mohanlall who had made several outbursts earlier during the trial in the Berbice Assizes. The accused told Justice Dianne Inshanally that he was not at the scene when the incident occurred and as such, she does not possess the necessary information to try him. ”No magistrate, no lawyer was not at the scene at the time of the incident,” he shouted as he interrupted the proceedings.

In another outburst, Mohanlall, 54, of Fyrish Village, Corentyne said that it was only God who was there other than the two victims. As witnesses gave evidence in the trial, there were also several outbursts by the prisoner in the dock. “Dem nah know nothing, was me and them two alone… only the cloud and the stars can say what happen.”

The trial was aborted after the evaluation by Dr Mayda. Mohanlall is accused of murdering Beeram Motelall, 45, called “Boy” of Chesney Village, Corentyne and Renard Fernandes, called “Renny”, 15, of 280 Rose Hall

Deputy Mayor of New Amsterdam Harold Dabydeen

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he New Amsterdam Town Council is accusing Town Clerk Sharon Alexander of signing a document paving the way for a private contractor to collect residential garbage around the town at a fee of $300 a barrel but the town clerk says she did nothing wrong.

Deputy Mayor Harold Dabydeen at a press conference on Thursday said at a recent meeting in the Region Six Democratic Council’s boardroom, Alexander signed the document unknowing to him although he headed the New Amsterdam delegation to the meeting.

“Before the conclusion of the meeting, the town clerk asked to be excused and one of the local government officers followed behind her and I was ignorant of what was going on.”

Accused Ravindranauth Mohanlall

Town Reef, Corentyne.

The murders were allegedly committed between September 6-12 2011 at sea in the vicinity of Bush Lot Village, Corentyne. The accused was represented by Attorney Charlyne Artiga.

State Prosecutor Renita Singh said that the defendant threw gasoline on crew members Motelall and Fernandes then set them alight.

On September 6, 2011 at 07:30h, Motelall, in the company of Mohanlall

He said during the evening, he received a telephone call from Alexander and was then informed that she was forced to sign a document giving Environmental Solutions the authority to collect solid waste from residents and businesses in the town of New Amsterdam.

“I asked her why she signed the document and she said that she was pressured and was forced to do so.”

The 63-year-old deputy mayor views the act as total disregard for him. “We are not pleased with the manner in which it was done and the council will not tolerate the collecting of solid wasted by a private firm within the town of New Amsterdam and we will continue to collect until we have some dialogue with the local government minister with respect to what was done by forcing the town clerk to sign under duress.”

He refers to the document signed as being null and void. The deputy mayor alleges that the town clerk was unaware of the contents of the letter and was not given a copy of the document that she signed. He also claims that the town clerk signed the document without reading it.

At the press conference, the town clerk was absent.

“She refused to come to the press conference and said

and Fernandes left Albion to go fishing in Brigelall Hardyal’s boat. She said that Hardyal subsequently received a phone call around 22:00h on the same date, from Motelall.

As a result, he and others went by minibus to the koker to await the arrival of the boat. One hour later, the boat arrived at the shore and Hardyal observed burn marks on the bodies of Motelall and Fernandes. Sections of the boat and some items were also burnt.

The two injured men were rushed to the New Amsterdam Hospital.

Along the journey, they told Motelall’s wife, Shaleza Sookdeo that the accused threw gasoline on them and lit them afire.

A report was made at the Albion Police Station. Mohanlall who was nearby on the road was pointed out to the police and he was arrested.

The prosecutor stated that Motelall, died on September 9, 2011 while Fernandes succumbed two days later (September 11, 2011).

The cause of death for both men was given as adult respiratory distress syndrome, resulting from the severe burns to their bodies.

Mohanlall will be treated for the next six months before he could become eligible to stand trial. His first appearance in the High Court is being considered a mistrial.

that she has nothing to say,” Dabydeen told reporters.

In an invited comment, Alexander told Berbice Times that she was not invited to be part of the press conference. She explained that because she is in the last stage of her pregnancy, she could not continue to be a part of the meeting which had already gone on for four hours and asked to be excused.

On her way out, she said she noted that she was approached by an official from the Local Government Ministry.

While admitting that she should have brought the issue to the attention of the council before placing her signature, Alexander says the document does not stop the council from collecting residential waste and only allows Environmental Solutions

the right to solicit business in the township.

The town clerk said that she did read the document before signing it. However she referred all questions in relation to the implications and content of the document to the Local Government Ministry. In 2013 the Local Government Ministry signed contracts with private contractors for solid waste to be managed by private contractors in municipalities and Neighbourhood Democratic Councils countrywide.

The New Amsterdam municipality has since maintained that solid waste management is the responsibility of the municipality.

Speaking at Thursday’s press conference, Environmental Health Officer Ramsud Akloo cited Chapter 28:01 of the Local

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ost people will agree that less violence, safe homes, great schools and citizens who work together to resolve problems are all important factors that make up a healthy community.

We all know that a community is made of various buildings such as houses, schools, post offices, supermarkets, and a place of worship, along with other things.

However, the most important thing that makes up a community is a high quality of life for everyone who lives there; one that is well-planned and a safe place to raise children, and educate them and having people working together to continuously make their community a better place.

For example, working together to clean up the village every once in a while or even go as far as to highlight some of the root causes for any issue that may arise are all simple things anyone can do. The key point is to take the initiative and not wait on someone else. It is nice to be the first to do it, to set examples for others to follow and let it be contagious, because everyone will benefit that way.

Actually a good community is one where villagers help each other and look out for each other. And usually it is low

in crime. In addition, a good village would be one where home owners take pride in cleaning their property and surroundings on an ongoing basis. When everyone takes the responsibity to do this, the whole village wins. Sure enough, society and the media can make things a little challenging. For example, it is somewhat like how we talk about the weather sometimes; we want it to be the right temperature before we go outside. Let this not be the case, but rather be good role models for other villagers.

Without any doubt, people do need certain things in life in order to succeed. They even need some privacy, but at the same time they also need contact with other people, because socialising with others is an effective way can build new and strong alliances within the village. And a strong alliance between villagers can perhaps find ways to come up with ideas to better their community. People also need contact with the environment, and they need beauty and inspiration, which are all available right in Berbice if we look with the ‘third eye’.

Peace of mind is also a huge part of a healthy community.

It will be nice knowing that people can leave their home and not having to worry about thieves. Everyone should be able to protect each other and in situations where the unexpected happens; if there happens to be a robbery for example in the village, it is important to address the issue in a professional manner and not putting the ‘label’ on anymore, because this will only make the situation worse.

Being supportive during the most difficult situations and being able to survive it is what takes time and courage, but at the same time it also makes a much healthier community with everyone can live with pride.

Government Act of the Laws of Guyana under the Public Health Ordinance 1:45, which states that the municipality shall be responsible for providing services to the residents of the township.

The act therein makes mention of solid waste. “So for us to sign over to a private collector, we will have to have these laws repealed.” Akloo said.

Meanwhile Dabydeen says once Environmental Solutions can satisfy the New Amsterdam Town Council that it is capable of properly managing all the solid waste that the town produces, then the council will consider giving approval to the company. “But for now we cannot consider it because there are a lot of loop holes in the matter.”

Narine Dat Sookram

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MonDAY, January 27, 2014

Simply the

Truth

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The National Ophthalmology Hospital

he US$13 million National Ophthalmology Hospital continues to lead the way in providing quality health services for Guyanese and the Caribbean.

Since its opening in July, 2009, the ophthalmology hospital located at Port Mourant, Corentyne has catered to the needs for thousands.

In 2013, the hospital treated a total of 19,523 patients of that 5154 were seen by the refractionist, while a total of 395 required admission for surgery. The hospital has also since expanded its services in areas such as laser cataract, laser treatment for glaucoma and intravenous injections.

According to Dr Vinashri Khirodar, director of the Port Mourant Hospital, one of the main focuses for 2014 will be to implement a programme to cater for community outreaches.

She noted that this is the brainchild of the director of the ophthalmology hospital where staff of the hospital will be visiting schools, ge-

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riatric homes and communities on a whole. At these outreaches, screening will be done for the eyes and those who require further treatment will be given the necessary recommendations and referrals to the ophthalmology centre.

She highlighted that eye care services at the facility have improved tremendously over the years.

Surgeries are conducted Mondays to Fridays with at least 20 surgeries performed per day, and in cases of emergencies, ophthalmologists are always on call to attend to patients. In Guyana, eye screenings are done at the four diagnostic and treatment centres namely Leonora, Region Three; Suddie, Region Two; Mahaicony, Region Five and Diamond, Region Four.

Persons seen at these centres and the ones who require further treatment are sent to the National Ophthalmology Hospital.

In addition, the Health Ministry on a weekly basis sends a bus filled with patients from Georgetown to

egion Six is on the move with the rehabilitation of several streets, specifically on the Corentyne coast and residents are most satisfied with the way in which the works are moving apace.

Over the years, persons have been demanding proper streets in their communities because of the effects of the rainy season. Thus far, construction works are ongoing on a number of streets between Bush Lot, Farm and Brighton Village, all on the Corentyne Coast.

During an interview with Berbice Times, Samantha Sahadeo who has been living at Number 36 Village for almost 18 years said this is the first time she has seen the street in a good state. “Well it feels good to have a proper street after a long time… we are thankful for that and don’t have to worry about

the ophthalmology centre, and the vehicle would usually wait until everyone is seen and treated by a physician before returning with them to their destination.

Previously, Guyanese seeking major eye care had to travel overseas for eye surgeries.

Under the Guyana/ Cuba ‘Miracle Mission’ project signed between former President Bharrat Jagdeo and then Cuban President Fidel Castro in 2006, hundreds of patients travelled to Cuba for eye surgery.

Since the commissioning of the state-of-the-art National Ophthalmology Hospital, Guyanese have been able to access reliable eye care. The hospital is managed by specialised staff from Cuba and is supported by Guyanese nurses. It was built under the Guyana/Cuba health sector agreement. In July of 2009, the ophthalmology hospital was commissioned

by Jagdeo. Services offered at the medical institution include retina detachment, corrective refractive error, glaucoma and retinopathy.

the condition it used to be in, especially during the rainy season which was very difficult for everyone” she said.

ver the holidays, we have had several people lost to death.

Each loss is inestimable for the families, and we can only imagine the pain of it.

We cannot know it, for each pain at each loss is unique.

In public ways, Berbice lost two of its sons. Senior Counsel Marcel Crawford passed. Pundit Achee passed.

Death – like love – is something that we always expect.

And yet, when it happens, we are astonished by it. Ask anyone who has found love or someone who has felt loss at the death of a loved one.

Crawford has left us.

People of my age would have known him from a distance.

Not because he was a lawyer, but because he was the only person who had what we called a “racing bike”.

We looked in awe at the downturned handlebars, the sharp spokes of the wheel, and the holster-like shape of the saddle, the sleekness of the machine, sparkle clean.

As children, we saw him zoom pass Rose Hall, his torso bent over, his helmeted head reaching towards the handlebars of the bicycle. And we admired from a respectful distance the leg muscles glistening with sweat and shaped by the effort. We did not care about his political persuasion, or his colour, or his profession.

We looked at a man at physical, muscular effort.

We made up stories about Crawford being the best cyclist in the world. Each time the man and his bike passed

Professor Daizal Samad Rose Hall, we made up legendary tales. Without uttering a word to us, he helped to bring us up. Crawford has passed, but he has not left. His memory, like the fleeting shadow of the man on that racing bike, under the mid-day sun, whispersmooth, is very much with us. Rest well, Sir. Pandit Achee has passed.

In his mere 40s, very young.

His mandir is close to the University of Guyana Berbice Campus (UGBC), just across the trench and to the south of the public road.

Like most good civic and religious leaders, Pandit Achee was attentive to what was going on at UGBC. He knew what was and what became rotten; and he knew what was built a-new.

More than two years ago, when I was director of UGBC, he came to see me on our campus. The secretary called and announced that “a Pandit Achee is here to see you”. Pandit Achee knew

Sahadeo also said she hopes that the residents in her community would come together and maintain the

that no one needed appointments to see me. I went out to greet him, surprised at how young he was.

He reached out his hand in the formal hand-shake way. I did not take his hand.

Properly, I put my palms together, and said, “Namaste, Pandit-Ji.” Pandit Achee took a half-step back, clasped his hands and said, “Ram Ram, Professor-Ji.” I responded with the necessary, “Sita-Ram.” Pandit Achee wanted the use of the UGBC for a youth activity, and he offered to pay. Back then, UGBC was there to serve, not to be served. I was clear with the service part, although I asked for a “small piece” for our grounds men and janitresses for doing extra work.

All done.

Pandit-Ji was part of UGBC and was an important part of a delegation to keep our campus from returning to uncaring hands.

He was ferocious in this and very out-spoken. He knew that Berbicians were extremely upset at what is still happening to our campus.

He knew the price that must be paid for betrayal, and he knew who must pay.

He did not mince words!

My last conversation with Pandit Achee was at my rented home. I asked that peace prevail. Pandit-Ji listened.

Pandit Achee has passed.

Your correctness and sense of right is alive, Pandit-Ji. Rest well, Mr Crawford.

Rest well, Pandit Achee.

street while ensuring that it lasts a long time.

“Now that we have a better street to walk on, I hope the people care it because we had to wait a long time to get it and now it’s finally here… thanks to the people who did such a great job, it’s unbelievable… I am so overwhelm by this experience done here… no more complaining because it’s all well now” she added.

Several other persons could not contain their joy, claiming that it has been a long time since promises were made by the regional administration for the community to have a proper all weather road.

Meanwhile, Region Six Chairman David Armogan disclosed that during the first quarter of 2014, there are some 78 streets to be rehabilitated, while another 79 streets are identified for rehabilitation. According to Armogan, there are a number of works to be done in New Amsterdam especially in the Vrymens Erven network and maintenance works in Stanleytown. The regional chairman also said that works would also be done on the Upper Corentyne area, especially the entire Number 74 Neighbourhood Democratic Council. These works are projects that rolled over from 2013 and are being done with funds from last year’s budget through central government and the Public Works Ministry.

guyanatimesgy.com

Pooran Seeraj during his performance on Saturday evening at Bath Settlement ground

By Bhisham Mohamed

L

ead singer of Shakti Strings Band, Pooran Seeraj was crowned Guyana’s Chutney Monarch just after midnight on Saturday at the Bath

prizes in the sum of $450,000, $250,000, and $100,000 respectively. Moments after being crowned the new chutney king, an elated Seeraj told Berbice Times that this was the fifth time he has entered the competition, not-

A jubilant Seeraj being congratulated by his colleague, Haresh Singh

Settlement Community Centre ground when the final of the Culture, Youth, and Sport Ministryorganised National Chutney Competition was held.

Seeraj with his song titled “Under the Maro” outshone his 15 rivals to dethrone the 2013 Chutney King Roger Hinds, popularly called “Young Bill Rogers”.

The hometown boy has won himself a place in the semifinals of the International Chutney Monarch contest, which is slated for February 1 in the twin-island Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

Apart from the title, he also won a cash prize of $600,000 and a trophy.

Coming in second was former Chutney Queen Fiona Singh with “Blow”, while the third spot was awarded to the 2013 monarch with “Ge Me More Chutney” and the fourth spot went to Uuvin “Waterflow” Sukho with “Leh Me Talk to You”.

Sukho also copped the best newcomer prize. The runners up will receive cash

ing that this year he strategised a plan, which was well-executed.

In gratitude, he explained that without the support of his sponsors, he would have not been on the stage doing what he likes to do – singing chutney music for his fans. He thanked his fans for the tremendous support he has received over the years, as well as some of the

MonDAY, january 27, 2014

7

A section of the large audience at the event

people who have financially contributed to his success, including Paul Chung and his employer, not forgetting the band members who have done a fantastic job.

Hard work

He said he had been hard at work for months with the intention of coming up with the best strategy to win the title. “I rehearsed my song before recording, rehearse, rehearse, rehearse then I went and record. That was it and it was over three months of hard work.”

Now that he will be Guyana’s representative to the international chutney competition, he said he is ready to bring his best performance. “That was all in the plan also, because once I win this, I am going to Trinidad… So it was in the plan and I am ready for it… I am coming bigger in Trinidad, I’m coming bigger.” The young artiste said he will not let his country down and will be leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of the Trinidadians.

He added that he believes chutney music has not lost its identity, but the artistes need to be continuously stimulated. “I would want to see the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport getting more involved by promoting chutney music at every level and all year round… Let’s just don’t wait

Steven Ramphal accompanied by his dancer during his presentation

until it is Mash time.” He is cognisant that there are very talented young people

Veteran chutney singer Harvey Gobin at the Bath Settlement ground on Saturday evening

in the genre who need the extra “push” to excel.

Greatest rival

When asked about his greatest rival during competition night, the newly crowned king said all the artistes performed to the best of their abilities, but he saw Prince JP as his biggest foe when it came to performing.

He was surprised that the young heartthrob did not place in the top four.

“I just wanna thank the judges for having faith in me and making me the new king… thanks all,” he said in conclusion.

It was a night of spectacular performances accompanied by fireworks, well decked-out dancers, confetti and well-designed sets to illustrate the story of each song. This year’s competition was definitely improved from the previous years’ and was well-attended, especially by Berbicians and those who travelled from Georgetown in support of their favourite artistes.

There were a few outstanding performances by several artistes who did not place. These performances included were Steven Ramphal’s with “Indian Queen”, Bunty Singh’s

A favourite at the event, Prince JP performing to his best

“Meh Wife Quarrelling”, and Prince JP’s “Indian Drums”, which left the crowd agape. Backed by the Ishara Dancers with their little crafter pots on their hips, Prince JP told the story of an Indian fete and the sounds of the various drums at these events, complete with fireworks and confetti.

Each contestant undoubtedly brought their “A” game on competition night, but Seeraj won the judges’ hearts with his elaborate stage décor and outfit. While he was a bit off-key, it evidently did not hamper his chances.

His set took the form of an Indian wedding with the bride and groom sitting “under the maro” as their guests danced to the chutney vibes in celebration.

Among the judges for the competition were Rupert Singh; Chandini Rambalak; Jai Deo; Amar Ramassar; and Patricia Chase-Greene, as the chief judge.

8

guyanatimesgy.com

MonDAY, January 27, 2014

gloves with Eastman.”

Rodgers said he was forced to put Eastman up against his gymmate Lesley in order for him to get some action on the January Fight Night card.

BY ANDREW CARMICHAEL

B

erbice’s top professional boxer Dereck Richmond will put his super middleweight title on the line on February 23 when he goes toe to toe with James “Sack” Walcott in a Beltless rematch bout, this time on Meanwhile, Richmond home soil. says the boxing board has The boxer, who believes shown little regard for he is not being given the rechis ability and success. ognition he deserves by the Richmond surprised loboxing authorities here, has cal boxing fans when he promised Berbicians an early knocked out Caribbean knockout. The card will see Boxing Federation five professional boxers from (CABOFE) Middleweight Berbice taking on fighters Dereck Richmond champion Edmond from Georgetown at the Area DeClou in round three of H ground in Rose Hall Town.

It will feature Gladwin Darway, Richmond, a non-title fight, breaking the champion’s Richard Williamson, Kelsey George, and jaw in the process. In December, he knocked out James “Sack” Walcott in round four to Kishard Simeon.

Promoter Orlando “Pocket Rocket” take the super middleweight title. Since the Rodgers says that several of the region’s December 26, 2013 bout, Richmond has not top amateur boxers will also be on show. been presented with his title belt. The fightAmong the amateur boxers will be Jamaal er is the first Berbician to win a local proEastman who is the current under-15 ‘box- fessional title in decades, but has no belt to er for the year’ (2013), Peru medallist Juel show. Richmond says despite De Clou being Williamson, Shekel Simon, and Tyron a more experienced boxer, he used his superior ‘knock out’ power to put him to the floor Lesley from Rose Hall Town.

Meanwhile Rodgers has expressed con- and keep him there and take the title which cern over the fact the Guyana Amateur he now has only on paper. “I need to get my Boxing Association has given no recognition belt, I have earned it.”

Richmond is demanding that board ofto the Pocket Rocket Boxing Gym, which has ficials present him with the super middlebeen the best boxing gym at most of the inter-gym boxing promotions. “They also need weight belt. A source close to the Guyana to be publicly recognised... Jamaal Eastman Boxing Board while not saying what the who won five best boxer awards in 2013,” difficulties were in the board acquiring the belt, noted that there are other champiRodgers, who also coaches the boxers, said.

“He is the best junior boxer in the coun- ons in Guyana who are still awaiting belts. try right now. I called Terence Pool to see if Richmond’s coach, Orlando Rodgers says he I can arrange a fight for him on the Fight communicated with the match maker of the Night card this month-end and Pool said Guyana Boxing Board, Eon Jordan and was that there are no boxers who want to match told that the belt was not available.

G

uyana’s strong batting lineup will be looking to dominate the other bowling attacks when they get cracking in the NAGICO Super50 tournament.

With Shiv Chanderpaul, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Narsingh Deonarine, Assad Fudadin and skipper Christopher Barnwell in the line-up, the Guyanese are expected to post some big scores for their bowlers to defend.

Left-hander Leon Johnson is another one of the key batsmen in the team and he also wants to feature prominently during the NAGICO Super50 – which runs from January 30 to February 15 in Trinidad and Tobago. He is looking to help his team win and make an impact to secure a return to the West Indies senior team.

“Looking at the NAGICO Super50, I see this as a good stepping stone, but I’m also looking forward to the fourday tournament and the first-class cricket. I’m feeling really comfortable now that I have sorted out a few issues I had with my technique,” Johnson said. “My

Leon Johnson

game is at a good standard.

Having done well in India has boosted my chances and my belief again. Playing against international players was really good for me and now I will look to push on and make the most of what comes my way.”

Johnson appeared for West Indies way back in 2008 when he played against Bermuda and hosts Canada in Toronto. Later that year, he toured New Zealand but did not play. Last year, he was in India with the West Indies ‘A’ Team and per-

formed well.

“I went to New Zealand back in 2008 and I didn’t manage to break in to the team. Now, I think I can break in, I think I am more focused and in the right frame of mind. Five years is a long time to be sitting on the outside, so now is my time to shine with some big scores for Guyana.”

He added: “We are equipped in both batting and bowling to do very well.

We have a solid, experienced team as most of us have played together before, so we will travel to the tournament with confidence.”

Guyana are drawn in Zone A alongside Windward Islands, Jamaica, and Ireland.

Their opening match will be against the Irish on Friday, January 31 at Queen’s Park Oval.

The NAGICO Super50 tournament will run from January 30 to February 15 and will be broadcast live on ESPN and on Caribbean Super Station radio.

Matches at Queen’s Park Oval are day/night fixtures while matches at Shaw Park, Tobago are day games.

Work is ongoing on the floodlights project

T

he $91 million contract awarded to Cummings Electrical for the installation of much needed floodlights at the Albion Sports Complex is moving apace with the second phase of the project underway.

According to information reaching Berbice Times, the second phase is slated to conclude by mid-February.

Raj Chunilall, sub-contractor of the project, told this publication that presently work is moving rapidly and landscaping, digging, casting and piling are ongoing.

“I am being sub-contracted by Cummings Electrical to do the civil works which involve the placing of foundation and erection of six towers around the ground,” Chunilall said, while noting that upon completion, the third and final phase will be the electrical installation of imported equipment and powering of the system.

Each of the six towers will be erected at a height of 110 feet and will be equipped with 17 1500-watt bulbs attached and powered by the Guyana Power and Light

S

The contractor has started work on the installation

Inc. Meanwhile, Region Six Chairman David Armogan said that this project is long overdue.

“Unfortunately, there have been some hiccups whereby changes had to be made on the models based on the prevailing situation of the ground,” he said, assuring that with the fast rate of work being done by contractors, he is optimistic that completion of the entire project will be in March of this year.

partans Cricket Team – the leading softball team in Berbice is currently preparing to take part in the countrywide softball tournament sponsored by Regal Stationery out of Georgetown.

The local team is eyeing the $1 million first prize. Spartans will be representing Berbice in the tournament. Captain Roy Jaffarally says the boys are rusty but will be in shape in time for the February tournament.

The competition starts on Valentine’s

Once the project is completed, U.S.-based Musco Lighting Company will install the floodlights at a cost of US$235,000.

The chairman said that this venture will ensure that the premier cricket arena in Berbice is equipped to facilitate night cricket. “Not only will we be able to have night cricket there, but it will enhance our chances of having any game played there in the night under lights,” Armogan added.

Day. Practice sessions started last week at the All Saints ground in New Amsterdam.

“Everybody got themselves a decent break for the holidays… the guys did put on a few inches over the holidays so we are currently working on that aspect of the game so that we can be fit,” Jaffarally said.

According to Jaffarally, the 17-man squad is under pressure to deliver, being one of the top softball teams in the country.

He promises they won’t disappoint Berbicians come Valentine’s Day.