Corentyne man to face trial for alleged murder of villager

A 46-year-old Corentyne man has been committed to stand trial for the alleged murder of a Bush Lot villager, who was reportedly stabbed in the neck after being invited to “gaff” with the accused. Bhola Jaipersaud, called “Joey,” of Lot 184 Bush Lot Village, Corentyne Berbice appeared before Justice Gino Persaud at the Berbice High Court on Tuesday, where the murder charge was read to him. He pleaded not guilty. The charge stems from the death of Rameshwar Sydney, of Lot 232 Bush Lot Village, Corentyne Berbice was allegedly killed on July 8, 2022. According to information gathered, around 13:00 hours on the day in question, Sydney had returned from the farm and was having lunch at his home when Jaipersaud reportedly approached him and invited him to “go over by him to gaff.” It is alleged that shortly after, Sydney was seen running towards his home with a knife lodged in his neck. A security guard who was passing at the time reportedly witnessed Sydney collapsing and alerted his relatives, who rushed to his assistance. Sydney was subsequently taken to the Port Mourant Hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after. Following Jaipersaud’s plea, a 12-member jury was empanelled to hear the evidence and determine whether he is guilty or not guilty of the charge. State Prosecutor Marisa Edwards told the court that the prosecution intends to call approximately 15 witnesses, including 10 police officers and Government Pathologist Dr. Vivekanand Brijmohan. The trial is scheduled to begin on Monday, August 3, when several witnesses are expected to testify. Jaipersaud is represented by Attorney-at-law Latchmie Rahamat.