Aranka Backdam murder trial opens

Mark Thompson
Mark Thompson
Mark Thompson

The trial of Mark Thompson, who is accused of murdering Brazilian miner Jose Rodriguez De Oliveira is underway before Justice James Bovell-Drakes, and a 12-member jury at the High Court in Georgetown.

The allegation against Thompson, who is being represented by attorneys Peter Hugh and Latchmie Rahamat, is that on August 7, 2010 at Aranka Backdam, Cuyuni River, Essequibo Coast, he murdered De Oliveira.

He has pleaded not guilty to the capital indictment. The trial continues this morning at 9:15.

Representing the State is Prosecutor Tamieka Clarke.