The victim, identified by the initials J.V., filed a report with the police after the incident. According to his statement, he was aboard the fishing vessel when another fisherman, known by the nickname ‘Stevo’, came to call him.
J.V. stated that he suspected Stevo of having stolen his mobile phone several days earlier. In order to be compensated for the damage, he had contacted the suspect’s employer. The employer allegedly promised to deduct the value of the phone from Stevo’s salary.
According to the police, that decision did not sit well with the suspect. A conflict arose, during which Stevo injured his fellow countryman in the arm with a knife.
Victim taken to Emergency Department
J.V.’s injuries were serious enough to require an ambulance. The victim was taken to the Emergency Department of the Academisch Ziekenhuis Paramaribo for medical treatment.
During the subsequent police investigation, the 33-year-old W.T., alias ‘Stevo’, was traced and arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm, following information provided by another fisherman.
At the time of his arrest, the suspect was under the influence of alcohol. Police found a knife on him, which was seized in the interest of the investigation.
After W.T. had sobered up, he was brought before an assistant public prosecutor. Following consultation with the Openbaar Ministerie (OM) (Public Prosecution Service), it was decided to remand him in custody.
Suspect is staying in Suriname without valid documents
The investigation also revealed that the suspect was unable to produce valid residence documents. According to the police, he is therefore staying in Suriname illegally.
The Openbaar Ministerie will decide on his residence status. The suspect remains in custody for the time being in connection with the investigation into the assault.
