The Guyana Police Force has warned against unsubstantiated statements about its handling of the matter against Simona Broomes, the president of the Guyana Women Miners Organisation (GWMO) who has been accused of theft and assault by a human trafficking offender.
In a statement, the police said the incident took place on April 21 at Puruni, but the victim who allegedly suffered at the hands of Broomes, Ann Marie Carter had evaded the police until her arrest in August.
“Upon being arrested, Ann Marie Carter made an allegation that she was brutally assaulted, including with the use of firearms by Ms Simona Broomes and other persons in her company. Her allegations were supported by a medical report and eyewitnesses.”
Broomes was subsequently questioned by the police and placed on bail as investigations continue.
“The reports in the media including the statement made by the Guyana Human Rights Association display a lot of reckless and unsubstantiated pronouncements being made that seek to vilify the police without knowledge of the facts.
“Or is it being suggested that we live in a society where some are more equal than others and under such circumstances, the Guyana Police Force should use the unprofessional approach of selective enforcement to achieve justice?” said the statement.
It was made clear that the force will continue to deal with matters professionally.
Simona Broomes
Meanwhile, Broomes’ Attorney Raphael Trotman has called on the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) to treat the allegations against Broomes with expediency in the interest of ensuring that justice is served.
On Monday, Broomes through her attorney issued an official complaint to the DPPs chambers. It is expected that a request will soon be made for the police to send the file on the matter to the DPP office.
Speaking with Guyana Times International, Attorney Trotman said it could take “several weeks” before a report is issued by the DPP office, but it is his hope that a response is given within two weeks.
It is alleged that Broomes on April 21 assaulted Carter and stole an eight-ounce gold chain during a trafficking in persons operation at Puruni. The report was lodged on September 19.
Approximately five hours after detention, the GWMO president was released on station bail to the tune of Gy$ 10,000; however, she has not been charged. Broomes is mandated to return to the police on September 6.
