Mahaica, East Coast Demerara businessman Harrylall Motilall and another suspect have been released on bail as the police continue to investigate a shoot-out which occurred last weekend as law enforcement officers were attempting to seize a quantity of smuggled items.
Police Commander of Region 4C Khali Paresham yesterday told Stabroek News that Motilall also known as ‘Jinga Harry’ and another individual was taken into custody hours after the incident.
He said they were questioned and subsequently released on bail as the investigation continues.
A third individual was also detained by the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) in connection with the matter, Pareshram said.
Stabroek News had reported that Motilall and others allegedly opened fire on law enforcement officers, who were responding to a report of him having in his possession a quantity of smuggled items.
A source had previously told this newspaper that between 10.30pm last Friday and 12.30 am on Saturday, GRA officers went to a bond located at Jonestown, Mahaica, owned by Motilall.
While near the bond, the ranks stopped a minibus, BKK 8511, which had several boxes of smuggled chicken. The driver, a 28-year-old rice farmer, was detained
Another minibus then drove into the compound of the bond and the occupants allegedly discharged several rounds at the ranks. As a result, the police were summoned to provide assistance.
While the GRA officers awaited the arrival of the police, they used their vehicle to block the entrance of the bond after which more rounds were then fired. The ranks returned fire.
The shooters then boarded a vessel and escaped.
It is alleged that Motilall was one of the shooters and high-powered firearms were used. No injuries were reported.
Motilall was subsequently arrested.
The bond was checked and no one was found. Several vehicles in the compound were also searched but smuggled items were not located. Several spent shells and warheads were, however, recovered at the scene.
Motilall has faced charges before and has been convicted.
In September of this year, he was charged with firing a gun as well as possession of components of a firearm without a licence. Bail was granted on both charges.
Prior to this, he was jailed for shooting at Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) officers.
