A post-mortem examination on slain Buxtonian, Shaka Blair is expected to be performed today once clearance is given by the police.

The police had requested the family to report to the Vigilance Station to get a policeman to accompany them to witness the procedure.

They had also been advised by the police to give statements at that station, since the incident occurred in that jurisdiction. But the family has since been advised legally against giving any statements without an attorney present.

Speaking with Stabroek News yesterday at Buxton, Blair's sister Rudo Blair said that attorney at law, and PNC/R executive member, Raphael Trotman, who was part of a delegation which met Minister of Home Affairs, Ronald Gajraj on Monday, had asked that a report on the shooting be prepared within two weeks.

Contacted yesterday, Police Public Relations Officer, Assistant Superintendent David Ramnarine, said that the force was sticking to its version of the incident as documented in the press release issued on Saturday, although an investigation will take place.

According to Ramnarine, physical and scientific evidence positively indicated that the deceased was associated with or in some way participated in recent criminal acts. But he said that the probe would start with statements already available from the deceased's reputed wife Simi 'Susan' Ragnauth and other relatives, which the force would act upon.

Questioned on the likelihood of an inquest to determine how Blair met his end, the PRO stated that the competent authorities would decide if and when they needed to take this course of action.

Meanwhile, the funeral is expected to take place on Monday, as relatives, including Blair's eldest son, are expected to arrive from overseas over the weekend.

Relatives, friends and fellow villagers of the deceased up to yesterday continued to gather at the Middle Walk Road home of the man who was gunned down by members of the Anti Crime Unit in the wee hours of Saturday morning.

The community has remained peaceful since Saturday's disturbances, which saw the Embankment Road being blocked and sporadic incidents between police and residents protesting the early morning shooting of Blair at his home. The Embankment Road continued to remain closed yesterday because of a ditch dug by protesting residents. A further cut was made on the carriageway to the west of the village boundary.

Police ranks from the Tactical Services Unit and the regular force outfitted in bulletproof vests and carrying rifles maintained their round-the-clock presence on the main road which passes through the village. (Oscar P. Clarke)