A MINER was shot and killed at Kartuni Backdam, Cuyuni River, after allegedly attacking a 27-year-old businessman at a camp.

The dead man has been only identified as ‘Leon ’. The businessman, who is also a miner, was identified as Kevin Baboolall, 27, of Bartica. Reports indicate that Kevin Baboolall is the licensed holder of a 9mm Glock handgun. On February 7, 2019 he visited a shop to use the internet and decided to stay in the area after learning a tree had fallen, blocking the road he would have used to return to his camp.

The miner then spent the night at another camp where he tied his hammock and decided to pray. It is alleged that during his prayer, “Leon” entered the camp in an abusive manner and began using profanity and making noise.

The owner of the camp then went over to ask “Leon” to leave, when he discovered he was armed with a cutlass in a holster. The irate man then allegedly attacked the owner of the camp and Baboolall, who was praying, withdrew his firearm and fired a shot in the air to thwart the commotion.

This agitated “Leon”, who then turned his wrath on Baboolall, proceeded in his direction with the cutlass to attack him. The businessman then discharged three shots in “Leon’s” direction hitting him in the chest.

When contacted, police confirmed the killing and noted that the body was taken to the Bartica Hospital Mortuary, where it is awaiting a post-mortem examination. Baboolall has since been taken into police custody as investigations continue. His firearm has been seized.