Two farmers were arrested on Saturday after they were nabbed with illegal firearms and ammunition at the Hotoquai Village, North West District, Region One.
Police Headquarters reported that Regional Police Commander, Superintendent Krishna Ramana, led a team of Police ranks to the home of Guy Wells, a 28-year-old farmer from Hotoquai Village. They did so because they received information that Wells had in his possession illegal firearms and substances.
The search was conducted but no evidence of illegal substances or firearms was found at Mr. Wells’ residence.
However, one of the detectives proceeded to search Mr. Wells’ farmland, located a short distance from his home. In the presence of Mr. Wells, Police discovered a single-barrel shotgun hidden in some bushes, which contained a live cartridge.
Additionally, Police found a black ‘fanny pack’ containing three live cartridges and two spent cartridge shells.
Wells was asked if he held a license for the firearm, to which he replied, “No.”
Police informed him of the offences committed (Possession of a firearm and ammunition without a license) and cautioned him.
Mr. Wells responded, “Officer, I use this for my personal protection and for hunting.”
He was subsequently arrested and placed in custody.
Based on further information received, ranks proceeded to the home of Herbert Williams, a 36-year-old farmer also from Hotoquai Village.
A search conducted at his residence did not yield any evidence of illegal substances or firearms. However, Police conducted a search on Mr. Williams’ farm, also in his presence, and found a single-barrel shotgun.
Williams was asked if he held a license for the firearm, and he too replied, “No.”
Police informed him of the offence and cautioned him according to the judge’s rule.
Williams disclosed that he had purchased the firearm for $10,000 from a man in Yarakita Village, NWD, a few years ago and used it for his protection and hunting.
Herbert Williams was then arrested.
Both Guy Wells and Herbert Williams were escorted to the Mabaruma Police Station, along with the firearms and cartridges.
