Well-known Bartica businessman and gold miner, 50-year-old Zaheer Mohammed Sheriff and porter, 30-year-old Donovan Washington were shot dead early this morning in the Arimu Backdam, Cuyuni river during a gold heist.
The incident took place at around 10 o’ clock this morning.
According to a Police report, the gold miner and his worker, were making their way out of the Arimu Backdam, heading to Bartica with 102 ounces of gold when they were attacked by two masked men on an ATV.
The 50-year-old was shot at least four times, while the other man, was shot at least seven times to his body.
The bodies were discovered by the General Manager of the mining operation owned by Zaheer Sheriff. The man claimed that moments after his boss and the porter left the mining site for Bartica on an ATV, he heard several gunshots.
He told investigators when he reached the scene, he found the bodies of the two men and realised that the gold that they had in their possession as well as Mr. Sheriff’s licensed firearm were all missing.
Police investigators who visited the scene of the double murder, said they found several live rounds as well as a number of spent shells near the bodies.
A full investigation has been launched.
The Bartica businessman was the treasurer and a director with the Small Miners Association.
See statement from the association below:
“It is with profound sorrow and outrage that we, the Small Miner’s Association Guyana Inc. (SMAGI), address the devastating loss of our esteemed treasurer and Director, Mohamed ZaheerSheriff, in a senseless act of violence.
Today, our hearts are heavy as we mourn the tragic passing of Zaheer, who was not only a dedicated member of our association but also a cherished friend and colleague to many. His unwavering commitment to the betterment of Guyana’s mining community was evident in every action he took, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
The circumstances surrounding Zaheer’s untimely death, alongside Donovan Washington, during a suspected robbery at Arimu Backdam, serve as a stark reminder of the grave dangers faced by those living and working in Guyana’s interior regions. Such heinous acts of violence not only rob individuals of their lives but also shatter the peace and security of our communities.
We vehemently condemn this cowardly act and demand swift justice for Mohamed Zaheer Sheriff, Donovan Washington, and their grieving families. No words can adequately express the magnitude of our sorrow, but we stand united in solidarity with those affected by this tragedy, offering our deepest condolences and unwavering support during this difficult time.
Furthermore, we call upon the Government of Guyana to take decisive action to enhance security measures and ensure the safety of all individuals residing and laboring in Guyana’s interior regions. It is imperative that steps be taken to address the underlying issues contributing to such violence, safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of our fellow citizens.
In memory of Mohamed Zaheer Sheriff, let us honor his legacy by continuing to strive for a safer, more prosperous future for all. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his memory serve as a guiding light in our ongoing pursuit of justice and accountability.”
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