Ranch manager, 44, arrested with illegal firearm, ammo

Sam Melville, 44, the manager of the Markanata Ranch in Central Rupununi, Region Nine, was arrested on Sunday after he was found in possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, which he claimed belonged to his employer.

Police said that ranks, acting on information received, arrested Melville at around 00:30 hours.

According to a police report, the ranks went to a bar at St. Ignatius Village in Central Rupununi, where they contacted Melville.

At the time, Melville, who appeared to be under the influence of alcohol, had a black object suspected to be a firearm tucked in his waistband.

Police said the ranks approached Melville and questioned him about whether he held a firearm license, and he responded ‘no’.

As such, the ranks took possession of the firearm, which contained one live 9mm round in the magazine.

Police added that Melville was cautioned about the allegation, and he claimed he had received the firearm from his employer to protect the ranch.

Melville was further questioned about the whereabouts of his employer, and police said he claimed his employer was somewhere in Georgetown.

Melville was arrested and taken to the Lethem Police Station, where he is assisting with the investigation.