One man suspected to be a known criminal was on Thursday afternoon fatally shot during an exchange of
gunfire between Police ranks and bandits at Ogle, East Coast Demerara.
The dead man was identified as 51-year-old Nigel Joseph of South Ruimveldt, Georgetown. He was reportedly shot to the abdomen and was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. In addition, at least three others were arrested. They are currently being interrogated by Police.
Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum, when contacted, told media operatives that the Police received information about a large-scale drug transaction and went to the location to investigate. While there, they realised that the information was true and immediately came under fire.
C (East Coast Demerara) Division Commander Marlon Chapman confirmed that the shootout occurred about 16:30h at the Alpha Hotel, Ogle. He said the Police were conducting an operation in the area when they came under fire from the men who were occupying a room at the hotel.
Chapman revealed that the Police returned fire, hitting the man who later succumbed. As the Police moved in, he related, the others attempted to escape, but were cornered and arrested.
The Police have since recovered an unlicensed firearm at the scene.
Chapman also confirmed that none of the Police ranks were injured during the shootout which lasted some 15 minutes.