Nigerian Man Imprisoned for Attack on Guyana State House in 2022

Guyana: Bethel Ikenna Chimezie has been sentenced to three months in prison after having pleaded guilty to the attack on President Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s residence in 2022. On the morning of December 15, 2022, Chimezie appeared at the southern guard hut of the state house where he claimed he had an appointment to meet the president. After the officials were unable to verify his claim Chimezie became more hostile.

demanded to see the president, after being denied access Chimezie opened fire at two presidential guards, and stabbed their associate Telon Perreira five times on his body and neck after being denied access in to the state house.

During the altercation, Chimezie was shot three times forcing him to spend weeks on a ventilator. Once discharged he had to undergo a psychological evaluation after having claimed to receive “visions”, which he wished to discuss with the president.

There were videos of the incident being spread on social media showing Chimezie exchanging fire with the posted guards and other officials. Chimezie attempted to flee the scene on foot but was stuck in his right leg by one of the guards.

In the post examination, police retrieved a 9mm pistol and seven 9mm spent shells. Nearby businesses were also affected by the crossfire. All the injured parties were rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation where they both underwent surgery.

Following the attack, President Ali went ahead and promoted Perreira to the rank of corporal for his undeniable courage. Chimezie initially pleaded not guilty but switched to not guilty as the case progressed.

He was sentenced to three months in prison and three years of supervised probation by a Guyanese court ruling.

The supposedly lenient punishment was given after factoring in that Chimezie had been placed under remand of state custody since January 19, 2023; Chimezie spent over a year in prison while his trial was unfolding.