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Police believe they have made a breakthrough in the shooting incidents that have been taking place in Rampanalagas village over the last few days with the arrest of a 27-year-old suspect.
The man was arrested by Ag Cpl W Cpl Lezama of the Toco Police Station and 16 charges were laid against him.
He is expected to be taken before a Sangre Grande magistrate today to answer the charges.
On information received over the weekend, a team of police officers attached to Sangre Grande CID and Toco Police Station went to Rampanalagas where the wanted man was confronted and arrested by police officers.
He was taken to the Sangre Grande Police Station where he was interrogated and statements recorded. He was then charged with 16 offences, including eight counts of shooting with intent, possession of a firearm and ammunition, discharging a firearm to endanger lives, possession of an unlicensed firearm and malicious damage to a vehicle.
For the last few days, villagers had been living in fear because of frequent shooting in the peaceful village of Rampanalgas. Two people were killed, several wounded and just last week an 80-year-old pensioner was shot.
Toco police had beefed up patrols in the village, a popular tourist attraction along the northeast coast, following the incidents.
Villagers, however, were forced into self-imposed curfews starting at 7 pm.
The team of police officers involved in the arrest included ASP Mario Romain, Insp Lutchman, Cpl Raphael, Ag Cpl WPC Lezama, Pc Singh Gadhar and Pierre. Police said warrants have also been obtained for the arrest of more men.
RALPH BANWARIE