POLICE in Regional Division Three are investigating a dramatic robbery attempt on Saturday afternoon at Zeelugt North, East Bank Essequibo, which left both the suspect and the victim injured.

According to investigators, 40-year-old businessman Teyon McPhoy, who operates a Superbet outlet from his residence, was attacked around 1:40pm. by 35-year-old Deol Narayan, a resident of No. 70 Village, Corentyne, Berbice.

Preliminary reports indicate that Narayan visited the Superbet location shortly after midday and placed several bets, which he lost. He later racked up credit bets totalling approximately $140,000. At some point, Narayan requested to use McPhoy’s washroom, and while at the back of the premises, he allegedly confronted the businessman, demanding cash. Police said the suspect then grabbed a quantity of $5,000 notes from a nearby wooden box.

A struggle ensued between the two men. During the scuffle, a handgun the suspect was carrying reportedly fell to the ground. Narayan attempted to flee in a waiting motorcar, but McPhoy picked up the firearm and discharged three shots in the vehicle’s direction. The suspect crashed into a sand heap a short distance away and was found bleeding from a head injury when McPhoy approached the vehicle.

Police were quickly alerted and arrived at the scene, where McPhoy handed over a .32 pistol. Officers also recovered a spent shell, a warhead, and a live round during their investigation.

Both men were taken to the De Kinderen Regional Hospital, where Narayan was treated before being transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital in a serious condition. McPhoy was placed in police custody and is assisting with the ongoing investigation.

Authorities are continuing inquiries into the incident.