Miner killed in family dispute, suspect captured in joint operation

Brian Roberts, who allegedly killed his brother-in-law

A family dispute in Kurutuka Village, Upper Cuyuni River, has ended in tragedy, with 24-year-old miner Elijah Daniels succumbing to fatal injuries after a brutal attack allegedly carried out by his brother-in-law.

The suspect, Brian Roberts, has since been captured in a joint operation involving the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF).

According to the Guyana Police Force (GPF), Daniels was admitted to the Georgetown Public Hospital in critical condition on Wednesday at approximately 16:00h.

Despite efforts to save him, Daniels succumbed to his injuries at 19:00h. His body is now in the hospital’s mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination.

Investigations revealed that the dispute occurred on December 3, when Roberts, reportedly intoxicated, attacked his 17-year-old sister—who is also Daniels’ reputed wife—while she was asleep in a hammock.

Using a cutlass, Roberts struck his sister twice, prompting her to flee into nearby bushes.

Shortly after, Daniels returned home and was confronted by Roberts, who allegedly dealt him several chops to the face before fleeing the scene on foot.

Daniels’ wife emerged from hiding to find him bleeding profusely with injuries to his face and hands. Villagers rushed him to the Kurutuku Health Post for initial treatment before he was transferred to Georgetown.