Sangre Grande maxi driver critical after failed robbery

According to reports, Nigel Otley, 29, of El Reposo Road, Sangre Grande, was plying his vehicle for hire along the Eastern Main Road, opposite Stanisclaus Street, Laventille, when two male passengers walked up and demanded cash at 11.40 am yesterday. Otley refused and was shot in the neck by one of the men.

The gunmen ran out of the vehicle empty-handed, while the screaming passengers ran to safety.

The injured, bleeding man was rushed to the PoSGH where sources confirmed he is unable to move his limbs because the bullet has damaged his spine.

Police confirmed that Otley resisted the robbery and was shot. The injured man’s brother, Carlton Otley, claimed his brother would not likely fight back in such a situation. He also told Newsday that the family is hoping for the best.

Cpl Ajodha is investigating.

Responding to the shooting, Gerard Williams, a maxi-taxi driver of ten years, claimed that he has been robbed seven times and will advise other drivers — "any time there is a stick-up give the money fast. Do not delay, do not play hero. Give them the money."

Trustee Clarence Taylor, a maxi-taxi driver for 25 years and a trustee of the Maxi-Taxi Drivers’ Association, said while he never encountered such problems, he supported Williams’ view and suggested some points to avoid being robbed.

"Be observant on the road. Go according to vibes. You could be right or wrong, but you must watch people. If you get held up, do not resist. Do not play hero.

"Because of how you are sitting, it is difficult to get away. Stay quiet and give possessions. Do not say a word." He also warned, "If someone sticks you up, if you have money in a drawer or pocket, ask the bandits to take it out before you dip, because most bandits are nervous and can become suspicious."

He also advised the drivers not to watch the bandits too hard because they do not like to be identified.

In an unrelated matter, officers are monitoring the situation of Tony Williamson, 33, of Waterloo Road, Carapichaima, who was shot in the mouth on Tuesday night at the corner of Eastern Main Road and St John’s Road, St Augustine. According to reports, a gunman walked up to Williamson, placed a gun to his head and fired a shot. The bullet entered his mouth and punctured his upper jaw.

The injured man was rushed to the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex where he is warded in a critical condition. Visiting the scene were Insp Modeste, Cpl Hernandez, and PCs Babb and Ramajattan.

Hernandez is investigating.