Brothers Charged in Connection with Bartica Murders

Brothers Charged in Connection with Bartica Murders

Brothers Charged in Connection with Bartica Murders

Brothers Charged in Connection with Bartica Murders

In a significant development related to the tragic murders of Zaheer Mohammed Sheriff and Donvan Washington in Bartica, two brothers, Travis Fredericks, aged 32, and Fernando Fredericks, aged 28, both residents of Tuschen Housing Scheme, East Bank Essequibo, were formally charged today.

The duo appeared before Magistrate Teriq Mohamed at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court, where they faced charges of being accessories after the fact to the murders. The indictable charges were read to them, and they were not required to enter a plea.

Following the court proceedings, both Travis and Fernando Fredericks were remanded to prison. Their next court appearance is scheduled for April 25, 2024.

The tragic incident occurred on March 3, 2024, when Sheriff, a 50-year-old resident formerly of Byderabo Road, Bartica, and Washington, a 26-year-old porter from Seventh Avenue, Bartica, were brutally killed at Arimu, Backdam Cuyuni River. The assailants, reportedly masked and riding a red All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV), stole significant valuables, including 102 ounces of raw gold worth $37 million and two licensed firearms.

According to police reports, Sheriff, who operated a six-inch land dredge at Arimu Backdam, had just completed a “wash down” operation and was traveling with Washington on an ATV back to Bartica when the attack occurred. Both victims sustained fatal gunshot wounds, and the assailants fled with the stolen goods and firearms.

Investigations led to the apprehension and subsequent charging of the Fredericks brothers, who now face legal proceedings in connection with the murders.

The tragic loss of Sheriff and Washington has deeply affected their families and the Bartica community. Autopsies conducted by Government Pathologist Dr. Nehaul Singh confirmed the cause of death as “multiple gunshot wounds,” underscoring the brutality of the attack.

As the legal process unfolds, the Bartica community seeks justice for the victims and closure for their grieving families. The diligent efforts of law enforcement agencies in pursuing the perpetrators demonstrate a commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.

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The Fredericks brothers’ apprehension and subsequent charges mark a significant step forward in the ongoing investigation into the Bartica murders. Authorities continue to urge anyone with relevant information to come forward and assist in bringing those responsible to justice.

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