Vryheids Lust man on $100,000 bail over T&HD arson

A Vryheids Lust man who is purportedly  mentally challenged was accused yesterday of setting fire to the Transport and Harbours Department building on Urquhart Street when he appeared before acting Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.

Ransford Campbelle allegedly on July 25 unlawfully and maliciously set fire to the Transport and Harbours Department building. The magistrate placed the defendant on $100,000 bail.

No facts were presented to the court about the case, and the accused was not required to plead to the indictable offence.

However, his father Marvan Campbelle spoke on his behalf and told the court that the defendant is mentally challenged.

The magistrate subsequently ordered a medical report, and  stated that Campbelle should be taken for a psychiatric evaluation.

Since the prosecution had no objection to bail the matter was transferred to Court Three for continuation yesterday.