A man has been bludgeoned to death behind a vegetable stall in Woodland.
Investigators believe that the suspect was killed at the scene located along the M2 Ring Road. The body bore a big gash across his forehead and had extensive bruises and cuts to the upper body. The deceased who appeared to be in his 20s is of African descent and was wearing red three-quarter shorts, white jersey and black shoes.
During an interview, proprietor Sham Persad said they arrived at the stall around 8:12 am Saturday and started to pack out their goods for sale.
"I was just about to pack out the box of bananas when I heard my boss shout out, 'Call the police. Look a dead body here.'"
Persad said the deceased was wearing a gold chain so it did not appear he was robbed.
"He looked under 30 years old and it looks like someone beat him really bad and leave him to die here," Persad said.
Councillor for Woodland Sheldon Lall said within recent times, miscreants have been frequenting the area.
"This is a popular shed and people always come here to buy. Recently there have been more incidents of crime. I have spoken to Senior Supt Wayne Mohammed and highlighted crime as the main issue and he has assured me that they will work with us to address this issue," Lall said. He noted that a crime watch group has been set up and frequent patrols have started in the area.
Mohan Premchand, the owner of the stall said weeks ago he was held at gunpoint and robbed of his Nissan Navara and his cellular phone. His wife and daughter were forced to lie on the floor while the thieves stole cash and valuables. Premchand said despite the robbery and murder, he had no other choice but to sell at the shed to earn a livelihood.
Police are now calling on members of the public to assist in identifying the deceased. Once identified an autopsy will be done. Senior Supt Mohammed is heading investigations.