Four police ranks arrested after Gavin Douglas dies in lock-ups

Four police ranks stationed at the Vreed-en-Hoop Police Station have been arrested and are currently in custody at the Tactical Services Unit (TSU) as investigations continue into the death of 32-year-old Gavin Douglas.

The Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) is investigating the circumstances surrounding Douglas’ death, following an incident at the police station on Saturday.

Meanwhile, a post-mortem examination conducted on Monday, by Government Pathologist Dr. Nehaul Singh, determined that Douglas died from brain haemorrhage due to blunt trauma.

During the examination, two Taser studs were removed from his body and lodged as exhibits.

The Guyana Police Force has assured the public that the matter is being treated with the utmost seriousness and that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure a thorough, impartial and transparent investigation.

The Force reiterated its commitment to accountability and the rule of law, adding that appropriate action will be taken against any rank found culpable, in accordance with the law.

Douglas, of Crane Housing Scheme, West Coast Demerara, had been arrested on Saturday in connection with an alleged armed robbery committed on Wednesday, October 28, at New Road, Vreed-en-Hoop.

According to Police Headquarters, Douglas was escorted to the Vreed-en-Hoop Police Station at approximately 11:36 hrs. At around midday, while being placed in the lockups, he reportedly became aggressive and resisted police ranks, who subsequently restrained him and placed him in the cell.

However, at approximately 12:45 hrs, ranks conducting checks reportedly discovered Douglas frothing at the mouth.

He was immediately rushed to the West Demerara Regional Hospital, where he died while receiving medical attention.

Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond has assured Douglas’s family that allegations surrounding his death in police custody will be investigated fairly. She stressed that accountability must follow wherever wrongdoing is established.

Source: NEW ROOMS SITE