The owner of a Chinese supermarket in Georgetown is calling for heightened security measures following a violent robbery attempt that left two suspects dead and two others on the run. The incident, which occurred Tuesday night at the Jia Jia Supermarket on Hadfield Street, has reignited concerns about the safety of Chinese-owned businesses across the country.
According to reports, four armed men stormed the supermarket around 7:30 PM, targeting cashiers and demanding money at gunpoint. The situation took a dramatic turn when a security guard on duty intervened, fatally shooting two of the suspects as they attempted to flee. The other two accomplices managed to escape westward along Hadfield Street.
Police later recovered firearms, spent shells, and two motorcycles—one without a license plate—abandoned near the scene. CCTV footage capturing the robbery has been extracted and is under review as investigators work to identify and apprehend the remaining suspects.
The supermarket owner expressed deep concern over the rising trend of targeted attacks on Chinese businesses and called for immediate action to improve security. “This is not just about my business; it’s about ensuring safety for all proprietors and customers,” he stated.
In recent months, Chinese-owned supermarkets have become frequent targets for armed robberies, with at least seven incidents reported between October 2024 and March 2025. Losses from these crimes have exceeded $2 million, prompting calls for stronger law enforcement presence and stricter regulations for private security personnel.
The Guyana Police Force has urged business owners to implement robust security measures, including hiring trained guards equipped with necessary protective gear. They have also emphasized the importance of vigilance and adherence to legal requirements for business operations.
As investigations continue, community leaders are advocating for collaborative efforts between law enforcement and business owners to address the surge in violent crimes. The Jia Jia Supermarket incident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to prioritize safety in commercial spaces across Georgetown and beyond.
