PNP MP Dwayne Vaz and his driver charged after alleged assault in Westmoreland

People's National Party (PNP) Member of Parliament Dwayne Vaz and his driver have been charged following an alleged assault in Savanna-la-Mar, Westmoreland, on Sunday.

Vaz denied any involvement in the alleged assault.

“I categorically state that I did not assault anyone,” he said in a statement issued through the opposition party on Wednesday.

Vaz said he attended the Savanna-la-Mar Police Station after allegations circulated on social media claiming he was involved in an altercation in which a man was assaulted.

“At the station, I was advised by a police constable that a report had been made alleging assault occasioning actual bodily harm,” Vaz said. He added that, in keeping with police procedures, he was offered bail on his own surety.

According to the Westmoreland Central MP Vaz, he was attending an event at New Market Oval with colleagues when he became aware of a commotion and saw two men on the ground “in what appeared to be a fight.” He said one of the men was his driver and the other the complainant.

“I, along with other persons present, intervened and successfully separated the men,” Vaz stated, adding that the complainant, whom he said is known to him, left the location on a bicycle. Vaz said his driver sought medical attention and is in possession of a medical report.

He confirmed that both the complainant and his driver have since been charged.

“I categorically state that I was not involved in any assault and that I am innocent of all charges laid against me. I have made myself fully available to assist the police with their investigations,” Vaz said.

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