A 22-year-old suspect was shot and injured by a businessman while allegedly robbing two Cuban nationals at gunpoint at Eccles, East Bank Demerara, on Wednesday night.

Police said the incident, which is being investigated as robbery under arms and discharge of a loaded firearm, occurred about 7pm on October 14.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the victims, labourers aged 24 and 25, were walking in the area when two men on separate motorcycles approached them. One of the men was armed with a handgun.

The suspects allegedly robbed the 24-year-old of a cellular phone, while the 25-year-old lost a wallet containing his identification card and cash.

Police said a 41-year-old businessman, who was at his nearby home, saw what was happening and fired several rounds from his licensed firearm at the suspects. One was hit.

The injured suspect rode a short distance before falling from his motorcycle, while the other fled the scene. He was taken to the Diamond Regional Hospital and later transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation. The 25-year-old victim's wallet was found near him.

Police are searching for the second suspect. Investigations continue.