By Jeune Bailey Van-Keric
A MALE patient went berserk last week and injured five others at the National Psychiatric Hospital (NPH) in Berbice.

The man, who suffers from a psychotic disorder, armed himself with a piece of wood and attacked the other mentally challenged inmates.

Those who suffered injuries were Gregory Mendonza, 45, Errol Leow, 37, Rickford Charles, 30, Harriram Nauth, 75 and Ramnarine Laljit.

Nauth and Leow were transferred to Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH) and admitted.

Nauth is alleged to be suffering from cranial haemorrhage and Leow is being treated for a fractured jaw.

NPH Chief Executive Officer, Dr V. Mahadeo, confirmed the casualties but said one of those hurt was kept at the institution.

He said an emergency meeting was held to discuss the attack and statements are to be taken from witnesses and others involved.

Mahadeo said several issues including lighting, security and inadequate human resources, were raised by staff at the meeting and the concerns were addressed.

According to him, guards have now been posted at all the chalets and light fixtures increased.

However, despite the steps taken, staffers are continuing a xsit outx to back their demand to speak with Minister of Health, Dr Leslie Ramsammy.

Police have since detained the attacker who had been admitted to the institution, at Fort Canje, last Monday but escaped on Thursday.

Efforts to recapture him had proved futile until Saturday last when Police, acting on a report of attempted arson, nabbed him at his motherxs home.