Two women were shot dead at a Couva spa Wednesday. Police are seeking a motive and the gunman.
Police are investigating the double murder of two women at a beauty spa in Couva on Wednesday morning, and the gunman remains at large. Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander identified the victims as Cheryl Dixon and Kavita Deosaran.
A police public information officer said a man entered the Soho Beauty Haven spa on the Southern Main Road and asked one of the women about the vehicle she was driving. He then pointed a firearm at her and fired two shots, fatally wounding her. The man went into a room in the establishment, where he confronted another woman. Shortly afterward, two loud explosions were heard, and the second woman was also fatally shot. The man escaped in an unknown direction. Police are working to establish a motive and identify the gunman.
Alexander said in the House of Representatives on Friday that the police service has increased intelligence-led operations, targeted patrols and investigative efforts in the central region to identify those responsible. He declined to say whether any arrests had been made or to give operational details, saying disclosure could undermine the investigations. Deputy Commissioner of Police Suzette Martin said inquiries are continuing into the killing of attorney and former police officer Taradath Singh, who was shot dead in Charlieville on Tuesday. She said police will keep up visibility and patrols and asked the public to share information.
Separately, the police service’s head of legal said concerns over recent violent crimes do not automatically trigger the Special Operations Act. After the weekly media briefing, he said the legislation has criteria and thresholds that must be met before the president can issue an order bringing it into effect. He said several issues have arisen with the act that the police are working through for a smooth rollout. Preparations are under way, including training for officers from the rank of superintendent to deputy commissioner, who would head operations under the act. The decision on whether to ask for an order rests with the Commissioner of Police.
