Bartica businessman arrested over theft of fuel, groceries
A 45-year-old businessman from Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), has been arrested for simple larceny after he allegedly stole several drums of diesel and $150,000 worth of groceries from another businessman, Brian Tiwari.
Based on police reports, the suspect worked with other unknown accomplices. The items were stolen sometime between 02:00 and 09:00h on Saturday at Takutu Landing in Region Seven.
Tiwari operates a mining operation at Farback Backdam, Cuyuni River. On Friday, he instructed two of his employees to use his truck to transport 16 drums of diesel valued at $800,000, a quantity of groceries worth $150,000, and a Toolkit valued at $80,000.
According to Police, the truck, driven by a 23-year-old, set off for the Farback Backdam in the early hours of Saturday.
However, at approximately 02:00h, while traversing the trail near Takutu Landing, the truck overturned, causing the fuel and groceries to spill onto the road. Both the driver and the porter sustained injuries and were transported to the Bartica Regional Hospital for medical treatment, leaving the goods unattended.
The stolen drums found at the suspect’s property
Police said that around 09:00h, on the same day, Tiwari dispatched his supervisor, Shawn Wilson, to check on the items. Upon inspection, Wilson discovered that nine drums of diesel valued at $450,000, the groceries and the $80,000 toolkit were missing. The total value of the stolen items amounted to $680,000.
Consequently, the matter was reported to the police.
Based on the information received, Police ranks visited the suspect’s business premises at Takutu Landing at around 14:30h on Saturday. In his presence, a search was conducted, which led to the discovery of six drums of diesel.
The businessman was informed of the allegation, cautioned, and he admitted to the offence. He was subsequently arrested, escorted to the Bartica Police Station, and placed into custody, where he is assisting with the investigation. (G8)
