‘Shanghai’ charged for hosting massive Linden party

Well-known Linden promoter, Aubrey “Shanghai” Major, was charged with a breach of restriction on social activities after he allegedly hosted a party at his Central Amelia’s Ward residence, in Linden, on Sunday last.

Police Headquarters noted that Major was charged in absentia as he failed to appear before Magistrate Wanda Fortune when the case was called at the Linden Magistrate’s Court on Thursday. The case will be called again before Magistrate Fortune on May 13.

While he did not appear in court on Thursday, Major was observed on a walkabout with the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr. on Wednesday on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD).

According to information provided to the News Room by a reliable source, members of the National COVID-19 Task Force (NCTF) received reports that “Shanghai” was hosting a major party at his residence; numerous videos of the event surfaced on social media.

In these videos, scores of people were partying, breaching social distance and mask-wearing guidelines stated in the gazetted Emergency COVID-19 Measures. Such activities, according to the Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony, can contribute to the spread of the coronavirus and the infection of more people.

Only on Wednesday, President Irfaan Ali was stinging in his rebuke of those who continue to go about their activities in a reckless manner and are flouting the COVID-19 guidelines.

At a press conference held at his official residence, State House in Georgetown, the Head-of-State said that the government will put more soldiers and policemen on the ground to ensure compliance.

When it comes to bars and entertainment spots, he said the National COVID-19 Task Force has been asked to consider charging the owners. The President suggested that jailing everyone who flouts the guidelines may not be the most practical approach.