A 42-year-old gold miner from Awarewaunau Village, Deep South Rupununi, has been granted bail after being charged with assault causing actual bodily harm. The accused, Romuald Sam, appeared before Magistrate Omadatt Chandan at the Lethem Magistrates’ Court on Friday, May 2.
Sam was arrested on April 30 at Marudi Backdam following allegations stemming from an incident that reportedly left another individual injured. The charge, considered indictable, was initially read to Sam, who was not required to enter a plea at that stage. However, under the Administration of Justice Act (AJA), the Magistrate opted to proceed with a summary trial, allowing Sam to enter a plea. He pleaded not guilty.
Bail was set at $50,000 with strict conditions. Sam must report to the Aishalton Police Station every Friday at 10:00 am until the case concludes. Additionally, he is required to keep the peace and is prohibited from contacting any witnesses involved in the matter.
The victim was present in court during the hearing. The case has been adjourned to May 14, 2025, when the trial is scheduled to commence. Sam was reportedly apprehended after evading authorities and fleeing to the Marudi Backdam area.
The court emphasized the importance of adhering to the bail conditions, warning that any breach could result in immediate revocation of bail. The proceedings will continue as the court seeks to determine the facts surrounding the alleged assault.
