Senior Multimedia Reporter
radhica.sookraj@guardian.co.tt
A mentally ill man is now in police custody, after he allegedly beat 57-year-old Mala Boodram to death at her Cleghorn Village, Princes Town home yesterday.
The suspect works at the Water and Sewerage Authority in San Fernando.
Investigators said that around 11.40 am, Boodram went downstairs to ask the suspect why he had disconnected the internet, which he paid for on a monthly basis. It is believed that the suspect flew into a rage and started beating her.
Speaking to Guardian Media at the victim’s home yesterday, Boodram’s sister, Omatie Basdeo, said after the attack, the suspect called them to say Boodram had suffered a heart attack.
“When we came, he was sitting on the couch. She was found with blood in her mouth and bruises on her body,” Basdeo said.
Indicating that the suspect has a history of mental illness, Basdeo said, “He goes to Ward 1, and usually, when he takes his medicine, he is a good person. He doesn’t interfere with anyone or become violent. But he was on vacation for three weeks. I know he gets angry sometimes, but never like this.”
Boodram, a mother of two, worked in a roti shop and often catered for her neighbours.
Meanwhile, a Professor of Psychiatry at the University of the West Indies’ St Augustine campus, Gerard Hutchinson, expressed condolences to the bereaved family. The professor noted that there has been an increase in the prevalence of mental illness among young adults worldwide since the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Although mental health issues are still relatively stigmatised, do not hesitate to seek treatment when one suspects that a relative or friend is struggling with mental health problems,” he urged.
He added that a small percentage of patients could become aggressive and violent when they did not take their prescribed medication.
“The first thing is not to stop taking medication without a full discussion with the treatment team,” he advised.
He added, “The law allows for persons with serious mental illness to be treated against their will if they pose a threat to themselves or others, so be prepared to engage this process if necessary.”
When asked to give advice to citizens dealing with mental illness, the professor said, “Ensure as best as possible that they are not also taking recreational drugs while on their prescribed medication.”
He added, “Keep in close touch with the treatment team so that assistance can be provided when needed and quickly.”
