DPP orders inquest into Barakat Landing murder

January 20 2025

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has advised that an inquest be held into the death of 27-year-old pork-knocker Matthew Ramlochand, who was allegedly murdered at Barakat Landing, Cuyuni River.

The Guyana Police Force, in an update on the investigation, confirmed that Ramlochand, who resided along the Soesdyke–Linden Highway, was fatally stabbed during an incident on Sunday, January 11, 2026.

As part of the investigation, a 38-year-old male gold miner of Half Mile, Wismar, Linden, was arrested on Friday, January 16, 2026, in connection with the matter. Following the completion of investigations, a file was prepared and submitted to the Chambers of the Director of Public Prosecutions for legal advice.

On Monday, January 19, 2026, the DPP’s Chambers advised that an inquest be conducted into Ramlochand’s death.

Police had earlier reported that ranks acted on information received and travelled to Barakat Backdam, where the suspect was located, informed of the allegation, cautioned, and taken into custody.

Additionally, two Venezuelan nationals—both females, aged 37 and 27—who were present at the location at the time of the incident, were also detained to assist with investigations.

Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident are continuing.