At least nine people lost their lives in a horrific knife attack on Sunday in Richelieu, a small town near Suriname’s capital Paramaribo. 5 children are also included in the dead. According to reports, the attacker attacked his four children and neighbors who were trying to stop him. Bodies were found in several houses.
The incident occurred in the Commewijne district, located about 25 kilometers east of Paramaribo. As soon as the information was received, the local police reached the spot and caught the attacker by shooting him in his leg. Later the accused was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
According to reports, the 43-year-old accused carried out the attack after a dispute over phone with his estranged wife. In a fit of rage, he attacked his children and neighbors who tried to stop him with a knife. The reason for the dispute was that his estranged wife did not come herself to pick up the children and refused to send anyone else.
Suriname President expressed grief
Suriname President Jennifer Girling-Simons expressed deep sorrow over this incident. He wrote in a social media post, "I wish all the bereaved families strength, patience and solace at this incredibly difficult time."
Suriname, which was once a Dutch colony, has a total population of about 6 lakhs. The murder rate in the country has generally been very low. However, according to Insight Crime, the murder rate here has increased to 30 per 1 lakh residents in 2024.