Police have made a breakthrough in the investigation into the fatal shooting of Hemchan Utam, a prominent businessman from Edinburgh Village, East Bank Berbice, who was gunned down during a brazen daylight robbery at his business premises on Thursday.
Utam, 54, known locally as ‘Jetto’, operated a retail store selling construction materials and managed Jetto Trucking Service. The incident occurred around 10:30 a.m. while Utam and his workers were conducting business. According to eyewitness accounts, a lone unmasked gunman entered the store, demanded money, and a struggle ensued. During the altercation, the assailant discharged a round, fatally wounding Utam. The suspect then escaped with an undisclosed amount of cash and jewellery.
Utam was rushed to the New Amsterdam Hospital but succumbed to his injuries while receiving medical attention.
In a swift response, law enforcement launched an intelligence-led operation in Stanleytown, New Amsterdam, on Thursday evening. The operation resulted in the arrest of Troyden Trellis, a 28-year-old man known to police. During a search of Trellis’ apartment, officers discovered a 9mm pistol, believed to be the murder weapon, concealed in a hidden compartment within a wall divider. Three matching rounds of ammunition were also recovered.
Additionally, a black Honda motorcycle, identified as the vehicle used by the suspect during the robbery and subsequent escape, was found at the rear of the premises. Both the firearm and motorcycle have been seized as evidence.
At the time of the arrest, a 25-year-old woman, the mother of Trellis’ child and resident at the same address, was also taken into custody as investigations continue.
Police have confirmed that the suspect remains in custody and is cooperating with investigators. Authorities have also impounded a motorcar believed to have been used as a getaway vehicle.
The fatal shooting of Hemchan Utam has sent shockwaves through the Berbice business community, with many calling for increased security and swift justice for the slain entrepreneur. The investigation remains active as police work to ensure all those involved are brought to justice.
