Two New Amsterdam men remanded for possession of over 20 lbs of cannabis

A narcotics case before the Weldaad Magistrates’ Court on Friday turned tense after one of the accused reacted angrily to the Magistrate’s ruling.

Richard Barrow, 44, of Smithfield Village, and Alfred Ambrose, 24, a mason of Patrick Dam, Angoy’s Avenue, New Amsterdam, appeared before Magistrate Sheveen Lalaram.

The court was informed that on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at ‘D’ Edwards Village, West Bank Berbice, the men were found in possession of 9.20 kilogrammes (20 pounds) of cannabis for the purpose of trafficking.

Both Barrow and Ambrose, who had no legal representation, pleaded not guilty.

Police Prosecutor Sergeant Garfield Edwards strongly opposed bail. He told the court that officers on patrol had observed the men acting suspiciously.

Edwards said police stopped their vehicle and searched both men but initially found nothing illegal. However, upon searching two haversacks lying about two feet away, officers discovered nine parcels of cannabis.

The prosecutor stated that Barrow and Ambrose were cautioned, arrested, and taken to the Blairmont Police Station, where the narcotics were weighed in their presence.

Edwards further disclosed that Ambrose admitted ownership of the cannabis during a video-recorded interview.

He argued that bail should be refused given the quantity of drugs seized and the seriousness of the offence.

Magistrate Lalaram denied bail for both accused.

Barrow became visibly agitated after the decision, insisting he was innocent. Officers had difficulty managing him as he resisted leaving the courtroom. Ambrose began to cry, claiming he had no knowledge of the cannabis found.

Their loud protests continued as they were escorted out, drawing the attention of others nearby.

The matter has been transferred to the Blairmont Magistrates’ Court for continuation on January 15, 2026.