Akeem Wong, a convicted rapist and double murder suspect, met his demise at Groete Creek Backdam, Essequibo River in Region Seven, when members of a Joint Services team fatally shot him at approximately 13:40 hrs yesterday.
Wong had escaped from Mazaruni Prison on February 15, initiating a month-long manhunt. His presence was confirmed yesterday at Groete Creek Backdam, Essequibo River, where Joint Services members, led by Major Bridgelall, encountered him, according to a police press release.
Upon sighting the officers, Wong emerged from bushes wielding a cutlass, prompting the officers to open fire, resulting in his mortal wounds. He was disarmed upon falling to the ground and subsequently escorted to Bartica Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The scene investigation yielded a cache of items in Wong’s possession, including $4700, three Sim cards, a flash drive, a memory card, scissors, cigarettes, a flashlight with batteries, a fishing hook, Cdn$100, a cellular phone, and a lighter.
In connection with Wong’s escape, two Mazaruni Prison officers were detained for questioning. Wong was also implicated in the brutal murders of Nellie Gomes, 75, and David Gomes, 49, at Saxacalli, Essequibo River, on March 8. It was alleged that Wong, after being provided food and alcohol, turned violent, inflicting fatal injuries on both victims with a cutlass.
The Guyana Prison Service has forwarded a file to the Director of Public Prosecutions for legal guidance regarding any potential criminal liability of prison officers in Wong’s escape. The escape occurred while Wong, along with inmate Gilbert Gill, was under the supervision of Prison Officer Torres. Wong’s request for a bathroom break was granted, but he absconded shortly thereafter, prompting an immediate alarm.
Wong, 26, previously convicted of rape in 2020, expressed remorse during his sentencing, claiming ignorance of his victim’s age and the legal ramifications of his actions. Despite his guilty plea, he asserted that the victim had consented and expressed a desire to compensate her financially if possible.
The demise of Akeem Wong marks the end of a tumultuous saga, leaving behind questions about prison security and the handling of violent offenders within the justice system.
