Man remanded over shooting of friend in back on hunting trip

Salio Chiwakans

A man was charged and remanded to prison on an allegation that he shot his friend in the back when they were on a hunting trip in the interior.

Salio Chiwakans
Salio Chiwakans

It is alleged that on May 20, at Arubai Backdam, Mazaruni River, Essequibo, Salio Chiwakans, 39, of Mazaruni, discharged a loaded gun with the intent to maim, disfigure and cause grievous bodily harm to Jonis Alban also known as Wilson Alban. Chiwakans was not required to plead to the indictable charge that was read to him by Magistrate Ann McLennan.

Making an appearance on behalf of the accused, attorney Jed Vasconcellos told the court that bail should be granted to his client pending the trial. Vasconcellos told the court that if bail was granted, his client was willing to work with any conditions ordered by the court.

Police Prosecutor Neville Jeffers objected to bail, telling the court that Alban is still a patient at the hospital and his condition is perceived to be serious. The prosecutor related to the court that on the day in question, the accused and his cousin who was in possession of a 20-gauge shotgun were on a trail waiting to go hunting with the virtual complainant. It is alleged that Chiwakans took hold of his cousin’s gun and shot Alban to his upper back. Jeffers contends that the police have in their possession a caution statement that was taken from Chiwakans, admitting to the act.

Chiwakans was subsequently remanded to prison by the Chief Magistrate. His matter was adjourned until June 20 and transferred to the Kamarang Magistrate’s Court.