‘I have lost all confidence in the AKS’

Poultry magnate Jai Ramkissoon said yesterday that he has lost all confidence in officers of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad and has decided to handle the kidnapping of his son, Syam by himself.

He said that as far as he is concerned, the police are not in possession of any information to assist him in rescuing his son, and he has decided to take matters into his own hands. Ramkissoon held a 15-minute meeting with ASP Henry Millington and Sgt Netram Kowlessar of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad at his Mausica home yesterday, and informed them that he was interested in meeting with the kidnappers and paying a ransom to secure the release of his son. He told the two officers that he received a telephone call from the kidnappers on Tuesday night telling him to drop off the money in Barataria. He was also allowed to speak with his son Syam, who told him, “Daddy don’t let the police come, or they will not meet with you.”

Newsday learned that around 10.30 pm on Tuesday, Ramkissoon accompanied by a friend and with bags containing cash went to Barataria where he awaited the arrival of the kidnappers. He waited for two and a half hours, and when the kidnappers failed to show, he returned to his home. Ramkisson claimed that his wife Sumintra was eagerly awaiting his arrival, hoping and praying that Syam would have been released, but her hopes were dashed when she learned that the kidnappers failed to show. He said that he himself was disappointed that the kidnappers did not show up, but he is still hoping that they will contact him, collect the money, and release Syam. He said that the kidnappers have reduced the ransom money, and he is now desperate to be reunited with his son.

At the home of Ramkissoon yesterday, his wife Sumintra, who appeared distraught, was seen pacing up and down the walkway leading to her home. Ramkisson’s daughter Sharon, who was reportedly kidnapped 17 years ago, also appeared distressed as she called her father to the meeting with AKS officers. Inside the house, two AKS officers who have been placed there on a permanent basis sat quietly inside. AKS officers said yesterday that though Ramkisson seems to be doing things on his own, the police needs to know what is going on at all times.