By Nakasia Logan
Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, has lauded the efforts of law enforcement officers in successfully apprehending escaped convict and alleged murderer Akeem Wong.
Minister Benn’s remarks came in response to inquiries from journalists regarding the operation conducted in the Essequibo region.
During a recent briefing, Minister Benn expressed his satisfaction with the actions of the officers involved in the operation to apprehend the criminal.
He emphasized the gravity of Wong’s criminal history, describing him as a “desperado, a rapist, and a murderer.”
Wong’s actions resulted in the tragic deaths of two elderly individuals and were linked to the death of a sergeant of the Guyana Police Force.
Wong, who had been on the run since his escape from the Mazaruni Prison on February 15, 2024, met his demise on Sunday near ‘Groete Creek’ Backdam, Essequibo River, Region #3.
Joint Services members spotted him in the area, and he was fatally shot as he charged towards them with a cutlass.
Following the confrontation, a search of Wong’s person and hideout yielded several items, including money, cellphones, SIM cards, a flash drive, a pair of scissors, and a lighter.
The intensified search for Wong was prompted by the murder of David Gomes and his mother Elizabeth Gomes in Saxacalli.
This incident also led to the accidental shooting of Police Sergeant Alex Vaughn, who was part of the search team.
Minister Benn, who provided guidance and support to the operation team, underscored the importance of swift and decisive actions in dealing with individuals like Wong, whose escape posed a serious threat to public safety.
The body of the escaped convict was transported to Bartica Hospital for further examination and processing.
The successful operation to apprehend Akeem Wong highlights the dedication and effectiveness of law enforcement agencies in safeguarding communities and upholding the rule of law.