Chinese cook remanded in death of six-year-old in Guyana

Quan Sheng Li, a 76-year-old Chinese cook, has been remanded in custody following his appearance in court on charges related to the death of six-year-old Zi Feng Cao in Parika, East Bank Essequibo, Guyana.

Li appeared before Magistrate Omadatt Chandan at the Leonora Magistrate's Court on October 5. He was not permitted to enter a plea and will remain in prison until November 5, 2026.

The child died after sustaining a wound to the neck on September 30 and was taken to De Kinderen Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Following his arrest, Li acknowledged responsibility for the killing and guided police to a drain where he had hidden a 12-inch stainless steel blade.

Li told investigators he had gone to Kenny's Ocean Restaurant, which the child's parents operated, to retrieve money he claimed to have invested in their business ventures. When the parents declined to return his funds, a dispute ensued. The child had just arrived home from school at the time of the confrontation, Li said. He stated that he pulled a knife from his bag and struck the boy.

After leaving the location, Li disposed of the weapon in a drain and then went to a police station. He later cooperated with officers to locate and recover the blade.

During the court hearing, prosecutors indicated that the post-mortem examination report and witness statements had not yet been submitted. The matter was postponed to allow these documents to be finalized.