CHIEF Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry, on Thursday, ordered labourer Mark Bhikhari of Lot 30 Front West Enmore, East Coast Demerara to post $350,000 bail on an abduction charge, particulars of which said that on Friday, June 6, at Georgetown, he compelled Vashti Sukhdeo by force to go with him into motor car, HC 1851, from Water Street, Georgetown to the K&VC Hotel.

Police Corporal Bharat Mangru, prosecuting, said the defendant and the victim had been involved in a relationship for three years, and on the day in question, the woman was heading to her work place in Kingston when the defendant was a passenger in a taxi at Water Street.

The court heard that Bhikhari held on to the victim’s hand and forced her into the vehicle to go with him to the hotel. Sukhdeo made an attempt to escape, and the driver drove his car to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Headquarters, where Bhikhari was arrested.

Bhikhari’s lawyer, Mr. George Thomas, assured the court that if his client was placed on bail, he would make no contact with the virtual complainant (VC) and would report to the police as arranged.
He said his client resides with his parents, and has no pending matters or prior convictions.

Bhikhari was placed on bail, and will have to report to the subordinate officer in charge at the CID every Friday. He will return to court on July 4 for statements.
Written By Geeta Rampersaud