Police constable arrested with unlicensed firearm, ammo

A 26-year-old police constable was arrested in the early hours of Tuesday morning after being found in possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition while seated in a parked vehicle at Riverview, Ruimveldt.

At approximately 01:30 hrs, ranks from the Anti-Crime Mobile Patrol unit were conducting duties in the area when they received reports from members of the public about a suspicious white Premio motor car (bearing a trade plate) parked on the roadside. The caller alleged that a male occupant of the vehicle was in possession of a firearm.

Police responded promptly to the tip-off and located the vehicle. Inside, they found Areyon Grannum, a Guyanese male of African descent and serving police constable attached to the Tactical Services Unit (TSU), seated in the driver’s seat.

When questioned, Grannum stated that he was currently on sick leave and was simply “liming”. He also informed the ranks that he had recently purchased the car from an auto dealership.

Upon receiving the information, the officers conducted a personal search of Grannum but found nothing illegal. However, during a search of the vehicle, a .32 Taurus pistol along with a magazine containing 11 live matching rounds was discovered concealed in the driver’s side door panel.

When asked if he possessed a licence for the firearm, Grannum admitted he did not. He was immediately informed of the offence, arrested, and cautioned. He reportedly told officers that the weapon was for his personal protection.

Grannum was taken into custody and transported to the Ruimveldt Police Station, along with the vehicle. The firearm, ammunition, and vehicle have since been marked, sealed, and lodged as part of the investigation.

Police have launched a full investigation into the matter.