Suspected bandit shot after bank guard robbed

A suspected bandit was shot yesterday morning by a member of a private security firm, who responded after the mugging of a fellow guard at the Republic Bank Training Centre on Waterloo Street, Georgetown.

The 27-year-old suspect, according to the police, was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he was treated before being released into police custody.

Stabroek News was told that the attack occurred around 5.15am yesterday, when security guard Esther Vanvield was on duty in the compound of the Republic Bank Training Centre. She was attacked and relieved of her cell phone, valued $35,000.

Following the attack, she alerted her supervisor and colleagues, who promptly responded. They chased the suspect, who was armed with a cutlass, and there was a confrontation.

The police, in a press statement, said shortly after the alleged commission of the crime, the victim [Vanvield], alerted her supervisor and security personnel of the private security company responded. The suspect, who was described by the victim, was subsequently spotted in close proximity to the crime scene.

The police added that he was approached and he allegedly drew a cutlass and attacked a member of the response team, who discharged a round, which struck him.

Vanvield complained of severe pain around her neck after the attack and she was taken to the hospital for medical attention. Her cell phone was recovered.