Trio remanded for multiple armed robberies across ECD

April 24 2026

Three young men were on Friday remanded to prison after appearing before the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court in connection with a series of armed robberies along the East Coast Demerara.

Terrence Phill, 25, a construction worker of Durban Street, Work-en-Rust; Kobie Benjamin, 19, a welder of Vigilance; and Antonio Atwell, called “Toni,” 22, a construction worker of Robb Street, Bourda, were arrested on April 22, 2026, by ranks from the Beterverwagting Police Station. They were formally charged the following day with robbery under arms, contrary to Section 222(c) of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act.

The charges stem from multiple incidents committed between April 19 and April 21, 2026, at various locations along the East Coast Demerara.

In one matter, the trio is accused of robbing Chinese nationals Yushun Lin and Linxie at Mon Repos on April 21, during which approximately $400,000 in cash and an iPhone 15, valued at $400,000, were reportedly taken.

Phill and Benjamin also face additional charges in connection with separate robberies. These include the April 19 robbery of businessman Fangkui Chen at Triumph North, during which $200,000 in cash was allegedly stolen.

In another incident on April 20 at La Bonne Intention Railway Embankment, the two are accused of robbing three individuals: Melford John and Hoyte Simeon, both labourers of Cummings Lodge, and businessman Sue Ye Fang.

The accused appeared before Magistrate Abigail Gibbs at approximately 10:30 hrs, where the charges were read to them. They all pleaded not guilty. Bail was refused, and they were remanded to prison.

The matters have been adjourned to May 29, 2026, for statements.