Gold miner shot dead during altercation at Cuyuni River Backdam

A 32-year-old gold miner was shot and killed during an altercation with a security guard at Sands Backdam, Cuyuni River, on Monday morning.

Dead is Ceton Courtman of St Monica Village, Upper Pomeroon River.

The incident occurred at about 11:50 hrs.

Police Headquarters said preliminary investigations indicate that Courtman and a 27-year-old security guard employed by a private security service was involved in an altercation, during which the suspect allegedly discharged a firearm, striking the miner in the head.

Courtman was rushed to the Aurora Gold Mines Medical Centre, where he was pronounced dead.

His body was examined and a wound was observed to the centre of his head, suspected to have been caused by a gunshot.

The suspect was subsequently arrested and remains in police custody.

Investigators also recovered and lodged a Taurus .32 pistol along with 12 matching live rounds of ammunition as part of the ongoing investigation.

Police said arrangements are being made to transport Courtman’s body to Bartica before it is taken to Memorial Funeral Home, for a post-mortem examination.

Investigations are continuing.