Businessman remains in custody

At 11.25 am on Monday, the businessman, 29, was driving his white Toyota Hilux van along Husa Trace in Mayo when a silver Lancer stopped in front of the van.

A man alighted from the car and approached the businessman, who opened fire.

The wounded man returned to his car and drove off, with the businessman in hot pursuit.

The chase ended six miles away at the front gates to the Gasparillo home of retired Assistant Commissioner of Police Cecil Santana.

Wounded and gasping for breath, the injured man told Santana he was being pursued by a man who wanted to kill him. He gave the businessman’s name and vehicle number before slipping into unconsciousness.

The businessman arrived shortly after and Santana drew his licensed pistol and arrested the man who was found with a loaded Smith and Wesson pistol.

The wounded man was taken to San Fernando General Hospital. It was learnt later that the businessman was recently robbed by the 26-year-old man whom he shot on Monday.

The matter is being heard before a San Fernando magistrate.

Only last week, the man was released from prison having obtained bail for the alleged crime against the businessman.

Police said the suspect faces several charges including attempted murder, possession of an illegal firearm and ammunition and discharging a firearm in a public place.

PC Castillo is investigating.