‘Calls grow for Karimbaksh to go’ - Opposition parties, several groups urge independent probe into rape allegations

(Kaieteur News) – Calls have intensified for Deputy Commissioner of Police, Fazal Karimbaksh to be placed on administrative leave pending full and independent investigation into the allegations of sexual assault.

Karimbaksh, the Head of the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), is facing allegations of sexual assault made by a serving female Police Inspector. Several politicians and members of civil society have called for Karimbaksh to be placed on immediate leave pending and independent investigation.

According to published reports, the abuse allegedly happened on more than one occasions, and the officer was subjected to threats against her life and in one alleged incident, had a firearm pointed at her. The police have not responded to questions by the media and there have been comments from the Minister of Home Affairs, Oneidge Walrond. It was reported that the inspector provided a sworn statement concerning the allegations, while media reports state that senior police officials have confirmed that a complaint was received. These are allegations which have not been determined by a court, and Mr. Karimbaksh is entitled to due process and the presumption of innocence.