A man who was wanted by police was yesterday shot by ranks of the force during an attempt to apprehend him.
The police say that they recovered an unlicensed firearm and ammunition. The injured man has been identified as Andrew Smith of ‘C’ Field Sophia, Greater Georgetown.
Police say they recovered a snub-nosed .38 revolver, four live rounds and two spent shells.
Police in a statement said that at around 11.15 am, ranks acting on information, went to Access Road, ‘C’ Field, Sophia where Smith was seen. However, as they approached the location the suspect allegedly pulled out a handgun and discharged several rounds in the direction of the ranks. The statement added that the ranks returned fire, hitting the suspect in the upper left region of his body.
Yesterday, when Stabroek News visited the scene, a different story was told by residents. One resident said that Smith and another resident had a confrontation. The man who was involved in the confrontation later reported it to the police.
The resident explained that Smith was on his bicycle at a street corner when he saw the officers approaching. Smith, Stabroek News was told, dropped his bicycle and began to run. It was at this point, the resident said that the ranks fired two rounds at Smith.
The resident stated further that after Smith was hit by the bullets he ran over to ‘B’ Field, Sophia but the ranks chased after and apprehended him.
Residents told this newspaper Smith did not discharge any round at the officers.
He was rushed to the GPHC and has undergone surgery.
