A 22-year-old vendor and construction worker was recently remanded to prison after being charged with robbery under arms.
Shamar McKoy, of Norton Street, Lodge, Georgetown, appeared unrepresented before Senior Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, where he pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The allegation is that on June 6, 2025, at Durban Street, Georgetown, McKoy, along with others and armed with a dangerous weapon, robbed Deon Rodriques of an iPhone 13 Pro Max valued at $160,000 and a haversack worth $20,000.
Prosecutors strongly objected to bail, revealing that a motorcycle believed to have been used during the robbery was found in McKoy’s yard. The stolen phone and bag were reportedly recovered on the premises shortly after the incident.
In response, McKoy told the court that two acquaintances had arrived at his home moments before the police reached. He claimed they dropped the stolen items and fled, leaving him unaware of the crime.
Prosecutors also raised concerns about conflicting addresses. McKoy initially listed his residence as Lot 28 Albouystown, later correcting it to Norton Street, Lodge. He explained that the former was his father’s home.
Regarding the motorcycle, McKoy admitted to ownership, stating that he had bought it recently for cash.
He described it as grey with white wings and a black seat—a description that differed from that given by the victim, who said the robbers used a black-and-white motorcycle but could not recall the licence plate number.
McKoy further claimed that while he was already in police custody, someone from across the street handed a phone to officers, saying it belonged to him – a claim he denied.
When asked about prior charges, McKoy said he was previously accused of robbery in 2024 but was acquitted. However, the investigating officer confirmed that McKoy was positively identified in the current case.
Given the gravity of the offence and potential for witness interference, Magistrate Azore denied bail and remanded McKoy to prison.
The case will be called again on July 16, 2025, for report.
