Miner nursing gunshot wounds after shootout in Lethem

Police in Regional Division Nine are investigating a shooting that occurred on Monday, in Tabatinga, Lethem, Central Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper Takatu- Upper Essequibo).
The incident, which occurred between 10:00h and 11:00h, has left 23-year-old miner Dorwnell Thomson hospitalised with suspected gunshot wounds.

According to reports, the shooting took place in a known ‘hotspot’ area where four men, all described as “known characters,” were gathered. The group was approached by two individuals on a motorcycle, one of whom is a suspect familiar to the police, accompanied by another unidentified man. Dorwnell Thomson, who was also reportedly on a motorcycle, was part of this interaction.
Shortly after their arrival, multiple gunshots were heard. According to the Guyana Police Force (GPF) “at this stage, it is unclear which party initiated the gunfire”.
Following the incident, Thomson sought medical attention at the Lethem Regional Hospital, where he was treated for gunshot wounds to the right side of his back and right arm. His condition is listed as stable, and he is currently under police guard at the hospital.
Detectives who processed the scene recovered six 9mm spent shells. One of the suspects who was on the motorcycle was arrested shortly afterward. His hands were swabbed for gunpowder residue, and he remains in police custody as investigations continue.
Additionally, Dorwnell Thomson and two other men who were present at the scene were swabbed for gunpowder residue to aid in the ongoing probe.