Police have arrested a security guard after a 32-year-old gold miner was shot dead during an altercation at Sands Backdam, Cuyuni River, on Monday morning.
Dead is Ceton Courtman of St. Monica Village, Upper Pomeroon River. According to the Guyana Police Force (GPF), the alleged murder occurred around 11:50 hrs on July 6, 2026.
Preliminary investigations revealed that Courtman and a 27-year-old security guard, who is employed with a private security service, were involved in an altercation when the suspect allegedly discharged a round from a firearm.
The bullet reportedly struck Courtman to the head. The injured miner was taken to the Aurora Gold Mines Medical Centre, where he was pronounced dead on arrival by a medic on duty.
Police said the body was examined, and a circular wound was observed to the centre of the head, suspected to have been caused by a gunshot. The security guard was later arrested and remains in police custody.
Investigators also recovered a Taurus .32 pistol, along with 12 matching live rounds of ammunition. The firearm and ammunition were lodged as investigations continue.
Arrangements are being made to transport Courtman’s body to Bartica and then to Memorial Funeral Home, where a post-mortem examination is expected to be conducted. Investigations are ongoing.
