Police probe two separate firearm incidents in Regions Nine and Four 

Police are investigating two separate firearm-related incidents that occurred on Monday night in Regions Nine and Four ‘C’, resulting in the recovery of illegal weapons and the arrest of two men.

In the first incident, ranks in Regional Division #9 responded around 19:05 hrs to a report of threatening behaviour at Hiawa Village, Central Rupununi. While conducting a mobile patrol, police were alerted to an alleged discharge of a firearm in the community.

Upon arrival, a 53-year-old male Community Policing Group (CPG) worker from Hiawa Village handed over a white rice bag containing a 20-gauge shotgun, two 20-gauge cartridges and one empty shell casing. The firearm and ammunition were secured by the ranks.

Further investigations led police to a 31-year-old male teacher from the same village, who was questioned in relation to the report. During enquiries, he reportedly admitted that he is not the holder of a firearm licence. He was arrested and escorted to the Lethem Police Station, where the firearm and ammunition were lodged as investigations continue.

Just over an hour later, at about 21:00 hrs, police in Regional Division #4 ‘C’ responded to reports of gunshots along Oil Mill Road, Cove and John, East Coast Demerara. On arrival, ranks observed a group of men gathered at a residence in the area.

During enquiries, one male was seen behaving suspiciously and was observed placing an object among plants in a yard. A subsequent search by the police led to the discovery of a .32 Taurus pistol along with a magazine containing eight live rounds. Additionally, three spent shells were recovered from the roadway.

The suspect, a 37-year-old construction worker of Cove and John, was arrested and questioned. He also stated that he is not the holder of a firearm licence. The firearm and ammunition were lodged, and the suspect was placed into custody.

Police have confirmed that investigations into both incidents are ongoing.