A Black Bush Polder, Corentyne man who was found guilty of manslaughter in the High Court in Berbice last month, was yesterday sentenced to 14 years’ imprisonment.
Navendra Basdeo, also known as “Pone”, 24, of Johanna North, Black Bush Polder, was on trial before Justice Jo-Ann Barlow on a charge of murder committed against Karran Sukhdeo, also known as “Vishal”, 30, also of Johanna North, Black Bush Polder. The murder took place on August 23, 2014.
A mixed jury had found Basdeo, who was represented by attorney Mursaline Bacchus, guilty of manslaughter. The State was represented by attorney Mandel Moore.
Following yesterday’s sentencing, the accused was informed that four years would be deducted from his sentence based on the mitigating factors. Additionally, the time he has already served on remand will be reduced from the remaining ten years.
According to a post-mortem examination, Basdeo died as a result of two stab wounds to his heart. In addition, other parts of his body had incised stab wounds, which resulted in shock and haemorrhaging.
It was alleged that Sukhdeo and the accused were at a wedding house in their village when a fight ensued. Persons reportedly parted the men, however, the deceased’s body was later discovered in the corner of a drain in the area where the fight began.
The accused, who has denied the murder allegation since being arrested, maintained his position during the trial.
In his statement, he had said that he was at the wedding house when Sukhdeo, who was armed, approached him and dragged him onto the road. He alleged that Sukhdeo then further attacked him.
The accused had sustained injuries to his head. He also claimed that at no point was he armed.
