Women's group calls for protection of elderly, safe business transactions

THE International Women’s Resource Network (IWRN) is once again calling for the protection of senior citizens and for business transaction to take place during regular hours and in a safe environment.

The call from president of the IWRN Adriana Sandrine Isaac-Rattan follows the discovery of the bodies of a senior citizen and a businessman on Saturday night.

The two, Utilda Joseph, 96, and businessman Anand Maharaj, 60, were killed in separate incidents at Quarry Village, Siparia and Gasparillo respectively.

Joseph, who was recently celebrated by Quarry Villagers for being the oldest person in the community, lived alone. Her only son died several years ago from cancer, but neighbours kept a constant check on her.

However, in spite of their vigilance, Miss Tilda, as she was known, was found dead by one of her neighbours. Her left hand was tightly tied with fabric and blood was seen around her mouth causing suspicion of foul play. Her bank and identification cards were said to be missing.

Maharaj, owner of Triple-A Auto Services Ltd, had gone to the home of a customer to do business on Saturday. His body was later found in the customer’s home, wrapped in plastic and duct tape and pushed under a couch.

In a statement, IWRN expressed deep concern over the heinous murders of the two.

“Despite the fact that similar-type murders have occurred in the past, it’s incumbent on the national community to ensure that lessons emanating from these crimes are acted upon swiftly.

“Protection of our senior citizens has always been of paramount importance, and time and time again there has been an urgent call for citizens to make proper arrangements that guarantee the safety and protection of their elderly relatives.”

Isaac-Rattan said these arrangements may also include accommodating them in the homes of their adult children and/or relatives with the necessary living space, particularly if they’re over 75.

“If, however, they are living alone, their homes must be properly secured and their valuables kept in a safe space away from their home.”

She said it is also important for elders to connect with their close neighbours, who can also become involved in monitoring their safety.

IWRN emphasised the importance of adhering to this advice as the risk to the safety of senior citizens is much too severe.

Concerned by Maharaj’s death, the organisation warned that as much as possible, business transactions should be done in business hours and in a safe, business-like environment, even if the parties are known to each other.