Maruranau farmer stabbed to death during family dispute; brothers-in-law in police custody

A 27-year-old Amerindian farmer from Maruranau Village, South Rupununi, was fatally stabbed on Friday afternoon in what police have described as a family dispute that spiralled out of control.

The victim, Assis Joel, a father of three, was killed around 16:00 hrs on September 26, allegedly at the hands of his two brothers-in-law, Hebrew Simon, 20, and Eloyde Simon, 32, both farmers from the same village.

Police reports indicate that Joel lived in a small wooden and concrete house with his common-law wife, Judith Simon, and their children, aged seven, four, and two. The tragedy unfolded just hours after the family had gathered to celebrate the youngest child’s second birthday.

According to investigators, the suspects arrived at their sister’s home early Friday morning to join the birthday celebrations. Around 08:00 hrs, they sat under a fruit tree about 70 feet from the house with Joel and began drinking local wine known as Kari.

By late afternoon, the alcohol was finished. Judith walked her husband back to their house and urged her brothers to leave. Instead, the brothers followed Joel home and asked to borrow his motorcycle. When Joel refused, an argument erupted, escalating into a violent fight.

During the altercation, police say one of the suspects armed himself with a kitchen knife and stabbed Joel, breaking off the handle in the process. The bloodied blade was left in front of the house as both men fled the scene.

Public-spirited villagers acted quickly. By 18:00 hrs, Community Policing Group (CPG) members had apprehended Eloyde and handed him over to the police. A team later moved in on Hebrew, arresting him at his home.

Police confirmed that both suspects were interviewed separately and confessed to the killing. A post-mortem examination is being arranged as investigators prepare to seek legal advice on charges.