Port Kaituma stabbing…Porter remanded for attempted murder

Apr 02, 2014 News

A 21-year-old porter, accused of stabbing another man several times during a dispute at a Port Kaituma shop, was yesterday brought before a senior Magistrate, charged with attempted murder.

Accused: Steven Belle

At the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, Steven Belle, a resident of Port Kaituma Water Front, stood accused of maliciously wounding 28-year-old Brandon George Edwards on March 29 at Turn Basin, Port Kaituma, with intent to murder him.
Belle who appeared before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry was not required to enter a plea; since the charge was deemed indictable. He however submitted an application for bail through his lawyer, Euclin Gomes.
The Prosecution, spearheaded by Inspector Michael Grant, told the court that about 19:00 hours on the day in question, the two men were at the shop when an argument ensued between them. Grant told the court that the two men then began fighting.
According to the Prosecution, during the scuffle, Belle brandished a knife and dealt Edwards several stabs.
The victim was rushed to the Port Kaituma Hospital where he was admitted and given medical attention. He was later air-dashed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, where he is currently receiving treatment for the injuries sustained. The matter was reported, Belle was arrested, and the charge for attempted murder was instituted against him.
Continuing, Inspector Grant offered several objections to bail. He cited the nature of the offence and urged the court to consider denying Belle his pre-trial liberty, since the victim is currently hospitalised as a result of the injuries sustained from the stabbing.
Notwithstanding the defence attorney’s bail application, the Chief Magistrate remanded the accused to prison. The case will be called again tomorrow.