The investigation into the fatal police shooting of 21-year-old Ronaldo Peters is advancing, with the case file expected to be submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) by Wednesday for legal advice. However, the probe into the related killing of 31-year-old Keon Fogenay remains ongoing, with investigators still working to gather critical witness testimony.
Peters, 21, was shot by a police sergeant on April 7 in One Mile, Linden. Police claimed Peters was wanted for questioning into rape and fled from ranks at Shabba’s Bar when confronted. CCTV footage revealed Peters was unarmed and running when the officer discharged his weapon. The officer later claimed the shot was accidental, occurring during an attempt to restrain Peters.
The Regional Security System (RSS), a CARICOM body assisting with the investigation, has been working alongside the Guyana Police Force’s Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR). The team arrived in Guyana on April 19 and has since visited Linden, engaged with relatives of both victims, and examined the scenes of both shootings.
While the Peters file is nearly ready for legal review, investigators are still interviewing additional witnesses today in connection with the April 8 shooting of Keon Fogenay. He was killed during protests that erupted following Peters’ death.
The RSS is expected to submit a separate report detailing its findings and recommendations for both cases.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali and Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo have assured the public that the investigations will be impartial and thorough. During a recent visit to Linden, President Ali met with grieving relatives and offered condolences.
“To the family, you have my love and prayers. To the community at large, you have my love and prayers, because I believe that all of us want the same thing: A just and peaceful society,” the President said.
