13 on public terror charges after Sheriff St fireworks

Thirteen persons accused of setting off fireworks in front of Buddy’s Night Club on Sunday were each placed on $50,000 bail yesterday, after pleading not guilty to charges of causing public terror and possession of explosive devices.

Among those charged are Ryan Gobin, Michael Mahdoo, Andrae Banwarie, Azah Khan, Sumindranaught Maniram, Suresh Singh, Nadira Dukharan, Melissa Christian, Rose De France, Amanda Mohabir and Mandy Deonarine. They pleaded not guilty to the charges read to them by acting Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court. The accused were placed on $25,000 bail for each charge and were ordered to return to court on January 7.

Police said the charges resulted from reports received that around 05:00hrs on Sunday, persons who were attending a private party at Buddy’s Night Club, on Sheriff Street, Georgetown, were setting off explosive devices in the compound, which caused fear and panic among neighbouring residents.

The fireworks display was done in honour of businessman Paul Daby’s 50th birthday celebration.

Some Campbellville residents said they thought the explosions were gunshots and were very afraid. Residents from as far as Liliendaal, Sophia and Lodge heard the explosions, which were described as being similar to the ones used by the Guyana Defence Force for public celebrations.