Family of Guyanese fisherman stabbed to death in Suriname seeks justice

An East Berbice- Corentyne (Region Six) family is demanding justice from Surinamese authorities following the death of 20-year-old fisherman Norris Dundas Vanderstoop.

Vanderstoop was stabbed to death on Tuesday in Suriname after attempting to ward off a group of men who attached his friend.

Reports are that the fisherman, who had been living in Suriname for some time was outside his apartment when he observed his friend being attacked by a group of men. He intervened to assist his friend but was stabbed about his body multiple times.

The young man who worked as a fisherman for almost four years and hails from Lot 4 Epsom Village, Corentyne was taken to a hospital along with eight others who were injured in the confrontation.

Thus far, Surinamese police have arrested some 20 persons who may be linked to Vanderstoop’s murder. Other suspects have reportedly escaped.

Vanderstoop’s brother, Leroy who resides in Guyana has described him as a humble and hardworking man. He said his brother had wanted to return to Guyana for Christmas but was forced to stay in Suriname because of the COVID-19 travel restrictions between the two countries.

Leroy told Village Voice News that his family is in shock but remains hopeful that justice would be served.

“All that we want at this point is for the Surinamese authority to do a thorough investigation because we heard that some of the men they apprehended escaped and since they are Guyanese, we are asking for the Guyana Police Force to be on the alert in case they are hiding out over here,” he said.

Efforts are being made to have the fisherman’s body brought to Guyana.