Guyana: OPR Investigates Death of Murder Suspect in Police Custody

The Guyana Police Force’s Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) has begun an internal investigation into the death of a 44-year-old murder suspect, Hemat Kumar Mohamed, who was found hanging in his holding cell at the Leonora Police Station. This incident occurred less than 24 hours after Mohamed confessed to the murder of his reputed wife, Shavannie “Bo” Hanoman.

Mohamed, a resident of De Groot-en-Klien, Uitvlugt, was taken into custody on Friday evening following a detailed confession regarding his involvement in the death of his 46-year-old partner. The police reported that the discovery of his body was made during a routine inspection of the cell between 10:45 and 11:24 on Saturday morning. Officers on duty found him suspended by a makeshift noose made from his clothing, which was attached to the iron window grill of the cell.

Emergency protocols were initiated immediately, and Mohamed was transported to the Leonora Cottage Hospital, where he was pronounced dead upon arrival. The circumstances surrounding his death have shifted focus from judicial proceedings to police accountability.

Prior to his arrest, a search for Hanoman had been ongoing after she was reported missing. Her body was later found in a drainage canal, with forensic examinations revealing multiple stab wounds. During interrogation, Mohamed admitted to a violent altercation with Hanoman, which led to her death.

The OPR has taken control of the Leonora station, reviewing duty rosters, lockup logs, and surveillance footage to investigate potential lapses in protocol. A post-mortem examination has been ordered to determine the cause of death, as the case raises questions about custodial practices and oversight within the police force.

Source: hgptv.com