Berbice man remanded on rape, attempted murder charges

A 28-year-old East Bank Berbice man was on Thursday remanded to prison after being charged with rape and attempted murder involving the mother of his child.

Christopher Ali, a seaman of Pepper Street, Edinburgh, appeared before Magistrate Michelle Matthias at the New Amsterdam Magistrate’s Court.

Ali was not required to plead to the indictable charges.

The first charge alleges that between December 1 and 31, 2024, he engaged in sexual penetration of a 15-year-old girl, Tiana Chapman. The second charge states that on February 24, 2026, at Heat Burn Village, he attempted to murder and unlawfully wounded Chapman.

Police Prosecutor Sergeant Colin Clarke objected to bail, citing the seriousness of the offences, the accused’s alleged attempt to flee the jurisdiction, and concerns for the victim’s safety.

The court heard that Chapman sustained 25 stab wounds during the February 24 attack.

Magistrate Matthias, after considering the nature of the charges, the safety of the victim, and the risk of flight, refused bail and remanded Ali to prison on both matters.

He is expected to return to court on April 16.

Chapman, who was present in court, is said to be recovering after being hospitalised in the intensive care unit following the stabbing.

Reports indicate that Ali and Chapman shared a relationship and have an 11-month-old child together.

In a separate incident, Ali was reportedly found in the Upper Berbice River on March 14, where he was beaten and chopped by unknown individuals. He later received medical treatment before being taken into police custody.

Police investigations into the circumstances surrounding the stabbing are ongoing.