Child rape suspect escapes from custody at Matthew’s Ridge

The Guyana Police Force has launched an investigation into the escape of a man held on suspicion of raping a child after he fled from lawful custody at Matthews Ridge in the North West District, police headquarters said on Saturday.

The suspect, identified as Randy James Smith, had been in custody in connection with the alleged rape of a child under the age of 16. Police said the investigation into the sexual offence had already been completed and Smith was expected to be formally charged before his escape.

Authorities have launched a manhunt and are taking steps to locate and recapture the suspect, the police force said in a statement.

The Guyana Police Force also appealed to the public to provide any information that could assist in Smith’s swift apprehension.