The Ministry of Home Affairs has assured that a “thorough and comprehensive investigation” is underway following the death of 30-year-old Jordan Payne, called ‘Otis’, who became unresponsive while in police custody at the Cove and John Police Station, East Coast Demerara.

In a statement on Tuesday, the ministry said it is “actively working in close coordination with the Guyana Police Force to establish the full circumstances surrounding this matter,” while assuring the public and the family that the probe will be conducted with “the highest standards of professionalism, impartiality, and accountability.”

Payne, of South Haslington, East Coast Demerara, died around 00:10hrs on March 24, 2026. He has been arrested since Friday, March 20.

According to the Guyana Police Force, he was in custody in relation to a domestic violence matter when he reportedly complained of feeling unwell.

Police said he was escorted to the Enmore Regional Hospital, where he was “seen and treated by a doctor on duty” before being returned to the station.

However, “while in custody, he again complained of feeling unwell and subsequently became unresponsive,” the police reported.

He was taken back to the Enmore Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Authorities stated that “no marks of violence were observed on the body,” which is currently at the hospital mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has urged the public to “allow the investigative process to proceed without interference,” appealing for “calm, restraint, and respect for the rule of law as the facts are carefully examined.”

It also extended condolences to Payne’s family, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring that “due process is followed and that all necessary actions are taken in accordance with the law.”

Investigations are ongoing.