Protests over an increase in power tariffs took a tragic turn last evening in Linden, when three persons were shot and killed and buildings and vehicles were set on fire.

Riot squad ranks fired shotgun cartridges at protestors after missiles were hurled during a confrontation at the Wismar/Mackenzie Bridge, which had been blocked as part of the protest since the morning.

Although police did not confirm casualties, relatives at the Linden Hospital Complex (LHC) identified Ivan Lewis, of Wismar Housing Scheme, Ron Somerset, of Amelia’s Ward and Shemroy Bouyea, of Wisroc Housing Scheme, who was described as mentally-challenged, as the three men killed.

Police eventually managed to clear the bridge but reported that roving groups of protestors had set fires and additional reinforcements were last night dispatched to the community. Joint Services patrols were also deployed in the area and there was an appeal for calm by residents by law enforcement.