Shot cop in stable condition

In a brief interview with Newsday, Williams confirmed that the wounded officer — PC Ryan Lochan, 21, was in a stable condition.

“We are praying for him and for his speedy recovery... He is in a stable condition,” Williams said.

Newsday caught up with Williams, Griffith and Snr Supt of Southern Division Cecil Santana as they visited Lochan as well as his family members at the San Fernando General Hospital. The trio also met with staff members of the said hospital and obtained information about his condition. Lochan, who is posted at the Barrackpore Police Station, sustained a gunshot to his abdomen and left leg on Friday night after he and two colleagues responded to a robbery that was in progress at a bar in Barrackpore.

Reports are at about 10.30 pm, three gunmen entered Vietnam Bar located at New Colonial Road, Barrackpore, and demanded that patrons hand over cash, jewelry and cellphones and other valuables in their possession.

A passer-by, realising what was taking place, alerted officers at Barrackpore Police Station and within minutes PC Lochan along with WPC Cholai and PC Sookoo responded. The gunmen opened fire at the officers, shooting PC Lochan, before making good their escape.

A relative yesterday told Newsday when Lochan’s mother received news that her son was shot, “she almost died”.

“Thank God he is alive. We were just praying that he would be safe. He is recovering but is complaining about pains,” the relative said not wanting to divulge any further information.

Lochan underwent emergency surgery following the shooting.

Snr Supt Santana yesterday added that police are “working on some leads”.

Scores of people took to the social network — Facebook — to wish Lochan a speedy recovery.

One friend posted, “You are in my prayers... May God bless you to have a speedy recovery and protect you.” Another wrote, “Speedy recovery Ryan Lochan. My prayers are with you and your family. God is great!”