CoP gets police brutality file

In a written report on the incident, lead investigator Inspector David Cooper stated that several charges could arise out of the incident.

Choon, 49, of Siparia, was up to yesterday still warded at San Fernando General Hospital. Choon claimed three policemen poured kerosene on his pants and set it alight. The incident happened last Friday while Choon was returning home on his bicyle along Akbar Trace, Siparia. He was also beaten. The medical report on Choon’s injuries stated that the eight and ninth ribs were fractured.

Choon’s left forearm, the report stated, had a 10 cm by 4 cm abrasion. Choon also suffered cerebral injuries. The medical report also stated that he was doused with gasolene. Cooper was commissioned to conduct an independent investigation into the incident.

He handed in a two-page report on Monday to Senior Supt of South-Western Division Samuel Jemott. In his report, Cooper stated he interviewed the three policemen and obtained written statements from them.

He then took a two-page written statement from Choon at the San Fernando General Hospital. Cooper stated in his report that he took possession of Choon’s clothing which was sent to the Forensic Sciences Centre for testing to determine what type of liquid was thrown on Choon.

Cooper’s report stated that Choon indicated he could recognise the policemen who assaulted him. The report went on to recommend: “As such, an ID parade should be held with the mentioned officers as soon as Choon is released from hospital.”

Meanwhile, the Police Service Commission (PSC) yesterday requested Commissioner of Police (CoP) Trevor Paul to forward to them, a copy of the police report on the investigations.

In a media release issued yesterday, the commission stated that it noted “with great concern” newspaper reports about Choon’s beating by police officers.

The commission has requested a copy of Cooper’s statement by no later than tomorrow.