-OPR says investigation launched
AS the Guyana Police Force (GPF) Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) investigates the circumstances that led to the death of a teenage motorcylist in Berbice on Thursday, Minister of Home Affairs, Oneidge Walrond urged residents to remain calm and to allow for the truth to be established.
Aftaz King, a 16-year-old of Eliza Mary Race Course, Corentyne, Berbice, while attempting to evade a police patrol, crashed into a utility pole about 18:45hrs, while on the Princeton Access Road, Corentyne, Berbice.
In a statement, the minister said, “I extend my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of 16-year-old Altaf King. My thoughts and prayers are with them during this time of profound grief.
“I wish to assure the family and the public that this matter will be the subject of a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation. Every aspect of the incident will be carefully examined, and if any criminal or disciplinary culpability is established, it will be dealt with swiftly and in accordance with the law. No one is above accountability.
“I also appeal to the residents of Skeldon and the surrounding communities to remain calm, refrain from actions that may endanger lives and allow the investigative process to proceed without interference.”
She also emphasised that she understood the grief and concern being expressed. “… it is essential that the truth is established through a comprehensive and independent investigation,” the minister underscored.
Meanwhile, the police force announced that the OPR has commenced an immediate investigation into the teen’s death.
“Enquiries disclosed that he was riding motorcycle #CL 5607 when he attempted to evade a police patrol, lost control of the motorcycle and collided with a utility pole.
“King sustained injuries and was conveyed to the Number 75 Regional Public Hospital, where he was examined and pronounced dead on arrival by a doctor on duty,” the police said.
The force indicated that the OPR investigation will examine all aspects of the incident and establish whether there was any criminal or disciplinary culpability.
“The Guyana Police Force recognises the seriousness of this matter and assures the relatives of the deceased and members of the public that appropriate action will be taken should any criminal or disciplinary culpability be established,” the police said.
Investigations are ongoing.
