IN the early hours of Thursday, March 6, 2025, a security guard allegedly accidentally shot himself while on duty at Gafoor’s compound in Cummings Lodge, East Coast Demerara.
The incident, which occurred around 02:00 hrs, is currently under investigation by the Guyana Police Force.

Lionel Duke, a 22-year-old supernumerary constable employed by Sheriff Security Service, was the victim of the self-inflicted gunshot wound.
According to information from the police, Duke said he entered the washroom on the eastern side of the compound while armed with his service weapon, a 9MM pistol containing 10 live rounds.
For reasons yet to be determined, Duke attempted to clear the firearm while inside the washroom, resulting in an accidental discharge that struck his right foot below the knee.

Following the incident, Duke contacted a 23-year-old friend, a businessman from La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara, who transported him to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation for medical treatment.
Police were alerted and arrived at the scene around 04:30 hrs to conduct an initial investigation. During their search, authorities recovered one 9MM spent shell from the washroom area.

As part of the investigation, the police seized the firearm along with the remaining nine 9MM rounds of ammunition. These items were lodged at the Turkeyen Police Station for further examination.
“The Guyana Police Force is continuing its inquiries into the circumstances surrounding this incident which raises questions about firearm safety protocols and training for security personnel,” the police said.