-Home Minister, police promise full probe
The family of 16-year-old Altaf King, who died in a fatal crash while allegedly being chased by police last evening, is calling for a thorough investigation into the events leading up to the teen’s death.
The teen resided with his grandmother at their home in Eliza and Mary Housing Scheme, Little Africa, Corriverton, East Berbice-Corentyne, Region Six.
The aunt-in-law of King, Karen Drepaul, told Kiskadee Watch that the family is aware of the police report issued, “But from the report that we received, that he was on his bike, we don’t know if he was going out or coming in by Springs Town, not too far from the housing scheme. And the police were chasing him, and they hit him, and they drive away, and then they turn back, and they pick him up.”
She noted that the family further understands that the police hit a lantern post during the pursuit and, in the process, hit King, resulting in his immediate death. “They hit the lantern post, the bike, and they hit him off of the bike, and he die on the spot”, she alleged.
The family is calling for justice. “What we want to see happen is we want justice, and we want to know who was responsible for hitting Altaf and taking his life from him. He was only 16 years old.”
“People who are there, they have people there that witnessed this thing happen. They also have video too”, the relative said.
Described as a quiet child, the family stated that King had hopes of entering the police force and had already filled out an application to join.
“Altaf wasn’t a druggy. He wasn’t a thief, man, and Altaf wanted to go in the police force because he was signing up to go in the police force. Unfortunately, the same force that he wanted to go in, (is now connected to his death). That’s what hurts more… They’re the cause of his death.”
Kiskadee Watch understands that the incident occurred at around 6:00 p.m. yesterday. However, the area where the incident occurred was reportedly not cordoned off until approximately 9:00 p.m.
Within minutes of the incident, angry residents took to the streets, demanding accountability from those involved. Many questioned why police officers were allegedly chasing the teenager through a street and called for a thorough and independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.
Video footage circulating on social media appears to show the injured teenager being placed into the tray of a police pickup shortly after the incident.
In a statement last night the police vowed a swift probe.
“The Guyana Police Force Office of Professional Responsibility has commenced an immediate investigation into the death of Aftaz King, a 16-year-old of Eliza Mary Race Course, Corentyne, Berbice, which occurred on Thursday, June 25, 2026, about 18:45 hrs, on Princeton Access Road, Corentyne, Berbice.
“Enquiries disclosed that King was riding motorcycle #CL 5607 when he attempted to evade a Police patrol, lost control of the motorcycle, and collided with a utility pole.
“King sustained injuries and was conveyed to the No. 75 Regional Public Hospital, where he was examined and pronounced dead on arrival by a doctor on duty.
“The OPR investigation will examine all aspects of the incident and establish whether there was any criminal or disciplinary culpability.
“The Guyana Police Force recognises the seriousness of this matter and assures the relatives of the deceased and members of the public that appropriate action will be taken should any criminal or disciplinary culpability be established. Investigations are ongoing.”
Minister of Home Affairs Oneidge Walrond in a statement last night said: “I extend my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of 16-year-old Altaf King. My thoughts and prayers are with them during this time of profound grief.
“I wish to assure the family and the public that this matter will be the subject of a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation. Every aspect of the incident will be carefully examined, and if any criminal or disciplinary culpability is established, it will be dealt with swiftly and in accordance with the law. No one is above accountability.
“I also appeal to the residents of Skeldon and the surrounding communities to remain calm, refrain from actions that may endanger lives and allow the investigative process to proceed without interference. I understand the grief and concern being expressed, but it is essential that the truth is established through a comprehensive and independent investigation”
The People’s National Congress Reform/A Partnership for National Unity (PNCR/APNU) has expressed concern over the circumstances surrounding King’s death.
In a statement, the party said it was “deeply disturbed” by reports alleging that Altaf King was being pursued by officers attached to the Springlands Police Station while riding a motorcycle, resulting in the collision that claimed his life. The party also said it was alarmed by allegations that the teenager was left bleeding at the scene without receiving prompt assistance, describing them as serious claims that require an urgent, transparent, and impartial investigation.
The opposition also called for a full, independent, and transparent investigation into the incident; the immediate preservation of all relevant evidence—including police records, communications, and any available video footage; appropriate action against anyone found to have acted negligently or unlawfully; and the timely public release of the investigation’s findings.
“The PNCR/APNU stands with the grieving family in their pursuit of truth and justice. No family should have to endure the pain of losing a child under such circumstances without clear answers and accountability,” the statement concluded.
APNU regional and district representatives Anil Sugrim, Candy Ceres and Steve Bernett visited the bereaved family offering support following the incident.
Discussion