Guyana Chronicle
June 5, 2001

BOTTLE bombs were yesterday thrown at the Albion Police Station, Berbice, during protests outside the station, Police Commissioner Laurie Lewis said last night.

He said the `molotov cocktails' were hurled at the station during demonstrations by crowds demanding firmer Police action against criminals in the region.

Lewis said parts of the station caught fire from the bottle bombs thrown during the incidents but the flames were put out.

Large crowds gathered from morning on the Albion road outside the Police station and Lewis said that during the incidents, a car was destroyed by fire.

"During the course of the day, there have been a series of incidents arising out of protest demonstrations outside the Albion station", the Police Commissioner said.

He reported that the situation was under control at 20:15 hrs (8:15 p.m.).

It is understood that one man was wounded and another hit on the head during the incidents.

Home Affairs Minister, Mr. Ronald Gajraj, who travelled to Berbice yesterday to try to speak with residents about the crime situation there, was unable to have discussions after the protests turned violent, reports said.

A source said the minister "found it difficult to talk to the crowds".

The crowds, estimated at thousands at one point, massed outside the Police station in a continuation of protests that began Friday.

Lewis said the road was blocked at times during the protests yesterday.

On Friday, residents concerned about recent crimes in Berbice, picketed at Albion, demanding increased Police presence and quick response to criminal attacks in their communities.

Officials said a meeting was organised between the residents and Police Commander Paul Slowe and senior ranks of the Police `B' Division.

This led to a number of initiatives and the residents and the Police were to meet yesterday afternoon in a follow-up session which Gajraj was to attend.

The protests, however, turned violent and at least two persons were reported injured.