A relative of the Bushlot, West Coast Berbice woman who was on Monday fatally stabbed during a robbery at her house has since confessed of being aware of a plan to rob the woman.
The body of Sumintra Sawh, also known as “Aunty Betty”, 85, of Lot 131 Section ‘B’ Bushlot Village, West Coast Berbice, was found on her bed with six stab wounds – one each on both sides of her temple, three on the forehead, and one to the back of the head.
Stabroek News was told that Sawh resided alone following the death of her husband a few years ago. However, her granddaughter, Roshanie Basdeo, 35, who lives in the same village would spend the evenings with her.
Commander of Region Five, Kurleigh Simon, yesterday confirmed that one person was in custody for questioning but he would not confirm whether there was a confession.
However, a police source close to the investigation yesterday confirmed that the relative was in custody while they were on the hunt for a prime suspect. The source further confirmed that the relative has confessed to having knowledge of the robbery.
He said the relative has since told investigators that a man who resides next door to the deceased and would do odd jobs for her visited them the day prior and the relative gave him $1,000.
However, the relative claimed that when he returned the odd jobs man told the relative that he would rob the elderly woman and buy a scooter.
On Monday morning, he visited the woman’s house and asked the relative for money while Sawh was sleeping. The relative reportedly told investigators that they showed him the bag in Sawh’s room which contained the money.
The relative said the man proceeded to the room where he began assaulting Sawh. The relative said that he then walked out of the room with Sawh’s bag.
The granddaughter had told investigators that two male bandits entered the house and took her downstairs where they tied her up while one went upstairs and attacked Sawh.
The suspect reportedly entered the house through the kitchen door which was left open and also escaped through the said door.
Police are continuing the investigation.
