Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn says that the blocking of the road by angry residents on the West Coast Berbice whose sons were slaughtered at Cotton Tree Village will hamper police investigations.
Isaiah Henry and Joel Henry were slaughtered at the back of the village while picking coconuts some time between Saturday at Sunday afternoon.
“I am deeply saddened at the discovery of the murders of Isiah and Joel Henry, and the mutilation of their bodies, today at West Coast Berbice,” Benn said in a statement Sunday night.
He said there is no justification for these acts.
“I share the shock, hurt and anger at this gruesome event, and particularly, the grief of: the families and friends of these youths of all of the Berbice Communities. The countrywide distress, abhorrence and condemnation are noteworthy and very keenly felt.”
He assured that the Guyana Police Service is vigorously pursuing its investigations into this crime and is required to spare no lawful effort to bring the perpetrator(s) to justice. These investigations, he said must be complete and thorough.
Meanwhile, Benn sought to discourage protests, saying that there are reports of a resumption of blockages of roads and associated bridges on the West Coast Berbice Highway. “This activity will not aid, but will surely hamper, the overriding issue of resolving this crime expeditiously. The efforts of some agitators will, also, have a similar effect and lead to a general breakdown in public safety and security.”
He added: “I wish to urge all residents of the local communities to act in a manner that is lawful and helpful to the Police in aiding their work and in preserving the peace across and between all communities.
The Ministry of Home Affairs will fully support all efforts, and source and bring to bear all requisite resources, towards helping the West Coast Berbice Communities through this difficult time,” the minister statement ended.
