15 hours ago
2
Senior Reporter
Residents of Bamboo No 1, Valsayn, were left horrified yesterday morning, after learning that Shaffina Hosein Madoo had been killed by her common-law partner.
A close female relative, living a stone’s throw from Madoo’s modest home on Nanan Street, expressed shock upon learning that the 68-year-old mother of five had been beaten to death with a rolling pin.
Her 60-year-old partner reportedly told first responders that he had been driven to commit the act after discovering messages on Madoo’s cellphone that suggested she had betrayed him.
Madoo’s daughter, who lives next door, was awakened around 12.49 am by the suspect, who allegedly told her he had killed her mother.
She immediately contacted the police and accompanied first responders to the house, where Madoo’s body was found.
The suspect later complained of feeling unwell and began vomiting, and reportedly admitted to ingesting a poisonous substance.
He was taken to the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex, Mt Hope, where he was treated and warded in satisfactory condition under police guard.
Originally from Barrackpore, the man had been living with Madoo for the past two years.
Madoo’s body was transported to the Forensic Sciences Centre, St James, yesterday but was returned to a funeral home, where it will remain until an autopsy is performed on Monday.
When Guardian Media visited Madoo’s home, only two dogs were present, keeping visitors at a distance.
A female relative living two houses away initially believed Madoo had been taken to hospital after noticing an ambulance. She said she had known Madoo for more than 47 years.
“She is a good person… she doesn’t meddle with anybody,” she said, recalling their last conversation on Sunday while on the way to church.
Another female relative commented on Madoo’s youthful appearance.
“She used to keep herself looking good. You would think she was 20 or 30 years younger than she was. She was always walking and exercising, doing her thing,” she said.
A male resident, who only learned of the murder around 11 am, described Madoo as “quiet, humble, friendly, respectful, kind… an incredible person.”
He recalled seeing her just two days ago, noting that she had been in good spirits.
Speaking emotionally, he urged others to be discerning when choosing partners.
“Be very careful who you choose as your partner. This goes for both men and women. In today’s society, you never know who you’re getting involved with until you are living together,” he said.
He also advised those experiencing relationship problems to seek support from family and to consider the emotional impact of their actions.
“Consider your partner. Consider the emotional effect you have on them. Protect yourself and keep in contact with your family. You don’t need to take this burden on yourself,” he said.
English (US) ·