No bail for accused in violent Arcade robbery

A mason was denied bail on a robbery charge on Monday after a court heard that he allegedly used a piece of wood to brutalise his victim before making off with his gold chain.

Lansdale Browne, 33, who resides at UU Bent Street, pleaded not guilty when he was arraigned at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court 1. It was alleged that on March 22, at the Stabroek Arcade, Browne robbed Rasheed Ali of a $160,000 gold chain. According to the prosecution, Browne and Ali are known to each other. On the day in question, Browne allegedly walked up to Ali in the Stabroek Arcade area and snatched his gold chain, which fell to the ground. Browne picked up a wood, hit Ali, grabbed the chain, and escaped, the prosecutor added.

The prosecution’s objections to bail, in light of the seriousness of the matter and the penalty it carries, were upheld by Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry. Browne was remanded to prison until April 27.