Georgetown, Guyana – A team from the Regional Security System (RSS) has arrived in Guyana to assist with investigations into the fatal police shootings of two men in Linden earlier this week. The incidents, which claimed the lives of 21-year-old Ronaldo Peters and 32-year-old Keon Fogenay, have sparked outrage and protests in the mining town, prompting calls for justice and accountability.
The shootings occurred on consecutive days, with Peters being killed on Monday during an encounter with a plainclothes police officer. The officer alleged that Peters, who was reportedly wanted for rape, was shot accidentally while attempting to flee. The incident, captured on CCTV footage, shows Peters being chased and later dragged into a police vehicle after being shot.
The following day, protests erupted in Linden over Peters’ death. During the unrest, police reportedly opened fire on demonstrators, resulting in the death of Fogenay, a father of four. He was struck by a bullet to the head while walking near the protest site. Both deaths have left the community reeling and demanding answers.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali has assured the public of a transparent and independent investigation into the incidents. He personally met with the grieving families and pledged government support for funeral expenses while emphasizing that justice will be served. “Every aspect of these incidents will be examined thoroughly and transparently,” President Ali stated during his visit to Linden.
The RSS team, comprising three investigators, is working alongside Guyana’s Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR). Over the weekend, they visited the scenes of both shootings and engaged with family members of the victims as part of their inquiry. Their mandate includes reviewing evidence, interviewing eyewitnesses, and ensuring impartiality in uncovering the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
However, not everyone is convinced of the RSS’s neutrality. The main opposition party, People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), has criticized the government’s decision to involve the Barbados-headquartered security body, citing its alleged failures in previous investigations in Guyana. They have called for alternative international agencies to oversee the probe to ensure credibility and independence.
As tensions simmer in Linden, community leaders have also raised concerns about police conduct in the town, pointing out that both officers involved had prior complaints against them before being reassigned to Linden. The officers remain under close arrest as investigations continue.
The government has appealed for calm as it works to address public concerns over police brutality and systemic issues within law enforcement. Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn urged residents to avoid destructive protests and allow due process to take its course. “We must not let this tragedy escalate further,” he stated while reaffirming the administration’s commitment to justice and transparency.
For now, all eyes remain on the outcome of the investigation as Linden mourns its losses and demands accountability for what many see as preventable tragedies.
