Villagers respond to robbery in Guinea Grass
A robbery in Guinea Grass on Friday night played out in the village when several residents took matters into their own hands to hunt down the culprits. Police captured the two thieves but enraged residents, as captured on video, launched an attack on the men. But police told the media today that the apprehension should be left up to law enforcement officers who are trained to deal with armed assailants. One of the robbers is now under police guard after he was shot during an exchange with police. The robbery happened at Zhen Zhen store sometime around nine-twenty that night. Here’s how police explained what happened.
ACP Joseph Myvett, Head, National Crimes Investigation Branch
ACP Joseph Myvett
“Sometime shortly before nine, he was approached by three dark male complexion persons all wearing camouflage clothing, who were armed and demanding money. As a result, he was robbed of money, cell phones and other items. Police conducting investigation in the area later came across two persons hiding in a yard; they were identified as 26-year-old Leroy Haulze and twenty-four-tear-old Wilson Cayetano both of Belize City. During the apprehension of these persons, Leroy Haulze who was armed with a 9mm pistol apparently pulled his weapon towards one of his officers causing the officer to discharge his weapon to Haulze’s direction injuring him to the left leg. So, he is hospitalized under police guard at this time. Police also recovered several camouflaged jackets and pants, as well as other items and some of the items believed to have been stolen from the complainant. Police have arrested and Charged Wilson Cayetano for the crime of robbery and I believe other charges are forthcoming, while Leroy Haulze remain at the northern regional hospital under police guard.”
Reporter
“Did the community play a role in the apprehension?”
ACP Joseph Myvett
“Yes. The community did play a role in the apprehension of these persons and the injury I believe was as a result of the commotion while he was being apprehended by those persons along with two or three persons who were there as a part of the investigation.”
Reporter
“Sir, is there any concern that the community overstep in trying to assist the police – they seemed very agitated?”
ACP Joseph Myvett
“Yes they were agitated. Our advice to them at this point would be to be cognizant that these robbers are usually armed and they may put themselves in the way of danger. The simple passing of information to officers who are armed and trained to deal with these situations would be best left to deal with these situations.”
