Sophia duo remanded over $4M burglary

Two Sophia men, accused of stealing over $4 million in machinery and equipment from a bond, were remanded to prison yesterday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

It is alleged that Rawle Hinds, 31, of Lot 94 North Sophia and Collin Kendall, 26, of Pike Street, Sophia Squatting Area, during the period October 3 to October 4, at Georgetown, broke and entered the bond of Jiangxi Thermal Power Construction, where they stole a level lock, valued at $480,000, a $900,000 Universal Instrument, three freezers valued at $300,000 and a welding machine valued at $450,000. Additionally, the duo is also accused of stealing a jackhammer and other articles. The total of that theft amounted to $4,427,000. However, the men denied the charge, when it was read to them by Magistrate Fabayo Azore.

Police Prosecutrix Simone Payne objected to bail on the grounds of the seriousness of the offence and that the investigation into the matter is incomplete. She further mentioned that two freezers, a jackhammer and one universal instrument were recovered. Payne also told the court that Hinds was recently released from prison.

The duo were subsequently remanded to prison and the matter adjourned until October 31.

As he was being escorted to the holding cell, a hostile Kendall was seen venting his disapproval at the charge levelled against him, saying “I come here for assault.”