Chinese supermarket robbery suspects arrested

Chinese supermarket robbery suspects arrested.

Police have managed to arrest two of the suspects involved in an armed robbery at a Chinese supermarket last Friday, as well as recover cash suspected to be proceeds from the robbery, along with two firearms and ammunition.

On Saturday, between 21:00 and 22:30 hrs, a cordon-and-search operation was conducted based on intelligence received. As a result, Superintendent Dufu, along with other police officers, proceeded to Lot 22 Graham Street, Plaisance, East Coast Demerara.

At this location, they made contact with Cleveland Cross, a 28-year-old male of African descent, employed as a construction worker, who was suspected of involvement in the robbery.

A search of his residence, specifically his bedroom, resulted in the discovery of several suspected stolen mobile phones, a white HP laptop with a charger, a pair of black Clarks boots, grey jeans, and a black ski mask.

According to a police statement, upon being informed of the allegations against him and cautioned in accordance with the Judge’s Rules, he admitted involvement, stating, “Officer, me and me ‘dawgs’ them went on that robbery last night by the Chiney at Success, but I just get some phone cards and I done hussle it out.”

He was subsequently arrested and escorted to the Sparendaam Police Station, along with the recovered items, which were photographed, secured in evidence bags, and logged. He later provided a statement under caution.

Following additional intelligence, the police proceeded to Lot 20 Prince William Street, Plaisance, East Coast Demerara, where they encountered Orwin Smith, a 25-year-old male of African descent employed as a mason. He was preparing to leave the premises with his spouse, Shawana Sobers, a 34-year-old female clothes vendor residing at the same address. Smith was observed carrying a black one-strap bag. A search of the bag led to the discovery of a black FNS-40 handgun, along with a magazine containing eleven 9mm rounds.

When questioned, he confirmed that he was not a licensed firearm holder, responding, “No sir.” He was informed of the offence and cautioned, to which he replied, “Officer, it’s my gun and it’s for protection.”

A further search of the residence resulted in the discovery of another 9mm black handgun inside a haversack in his bedroom.

Based on checks, this firearm had been stolen during a recent robbery under arms committed at the XI Chinese establishment situated at Melanie Public Road, ECD, which occurred on 23rd February 2025. The firearm had been taken from the security guard, Daquan Philadelphia.

Additionally, cash in various denominations totalling $71,420 (Guyana Currency), suspected to be proceeds from the robbery, was recovered.

Both suspects were informed of the allegations and cautioned. Smith admitted ownership of the firearms and ammunition, further stating that the recovered cash was part of his share from the robbery. Shawana Sobers stated that she is not a licensed firearm holder, and told the police: “Officer, it’s Orwin’s guns.”

Both individuals were arrested and transported to the Sparendaam Police Station, where they were profiled and placed in custody.

Investigations are ongoing.