Quick response by police yesterday led to the arrests of four men minutes after they robbed two families in Charlieville, Chaguanas. In the first incident, around 7.15 am, the officers were summoned to the home of a Charlieville businessman whose mini mart was being robbed.
The officers led by Inspector Wayne Lawrence responded and a 38 year old suspect from Enterprise, Chaguanas was arrested. The businessman's cash and valuable were recovered, while the man was detained. He is expected to be put on identification parades later today.
Almost four hours later, the officers responded to a report in which a family from Cemetery Street, Charlieville had been robbed. Investigators said upon responding they were met with gunfire from one of the three suspects, who were leaving the family's premises.
The officers reportedly returned fire hitting the man once in the left leg. The suspects later surrendered to police. The wounded suspect was rushed to the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex where he was treated and warded in a stable condition. The two other suspects were detained by investigators for questioning.
The trio are said to be between 21 to 24 years-old and told police that they live at Mt D'or, Champs Fleurs. A 9 mm pistol with five spent shells was recovered at the scene, as well as the items that were taken from the family minutes before the shoot-out with police.
The suspects are expect to appear before a Chaguanas magistrate tomorrow on robbery and shooting with intent charges. Senior Supt Deodath Doolarchan and Superintendent Johnny Abraham visited the scene of both incidents. Both senior officers assured concerned residents that there would be an increased police presence in the area in response to an increase in reports of robbery.
Also involved in the exercise was Woman Police Sgt John, Cpl Ramsaran and officers of the Central Division Task Force.
