1990 coup youth gunned down

According to reports, Gillard, alias Abu, 29, of Apartment Five, building Five, John John Plannings, Plaisance Road, Laventille, was fixing a car at Tank Trace at 7 pm on Wednesday in St Barbs, when two gunmen walked up and opened fire.

The father of one slumped to the ground dead. Visiting the scene along with the police was DMO Dr Igbar Ackar, who ordered the body taken to the Forensic Science Centre for autopsy. The report revealed death as a result of multiple gunshots.

The Unemployment Relief Programme employee is best remembered as the youngest member of the failed 1990 coup attempt, who stormed the Parliament with Abu Bakr and his associates, killing a police man and other civilians in the process. Gillard is one of those reported to have kicked former Prime Minister ANR Robinson in the face before the famous words, "attack with full force."

Gillard is one of many participants in the 1990 insurrection who has met a violent death. Approximately 70 persons associated with the 1990 fiasco have been murdered.

When Newsday visited the apartment, residents described him as a cool person who kept to himself.

Police confirmed that Gillard had been living a quiet life, and are surprised about the killing.

Visiting the scene were Insp Singh, Sgts Boyce, Stewart, PCs Spence, Ranson and George. Insp Singh is investigating.