PHILLIP and Franklin Sutherland (no addresses given) are charged with having murdered their cousin, Martin Robert, on January 10, at Quamatta Village, Central Rupununi.The duo appeared before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry at the Georgetown Magistrates Court, where Police Corporal Bharat Mangru, prosecuting, told the court that the two brothers and their relative had gone to the Quamatta Village Farm, and when they returned home, they were imbibing yeast tonic (an Amerindian alcoholic beverage).

An argument subsequently developed between Phillip and three other men, Franklin saw the scuffle between his brother and others and intervened. Robert was thrown to the ground, and the two accused dealt him several kicks and cuffs to his head before persons observed that his body was motionless and reported the incident. Investigations led to the charge.

This case was also transferred to Lethem Court for March 3.
Written By Geeta Rampersaud