A woman was yesterday refused bail on a charge of ganja trafficking, after police said the drug was found in the net above her bed.
The allegation against Onika Williams states that on October 13th, at Sulphur Road Backdam, in the Cuyuni River area, she had 58 grammes of cannabis in her possession for trafficking.
Williams, a North Ruimveldt resident who works in the interior as a cook, pleaded not guilty to the charge when she appeared before city magistrate Ann McLennan.
According to prosecution’s case, police on patrol had carried out a search on a shop that is reportedly owned by Williams. During the search, the cannabis was allegedly discovered wrapped in brown scotch tape on top of a net which hung over the bed of the accused. As a result of the discovery, Williams was told of the offence and subsequently arrested and charged.
But Williams’ attorney, Peter Hugh, explained that the narcotic was not found in his client’s possession but rather wrapped in scotch tape on top of a net in an open mining camp. Hugh noted that because of the setup of the camp, anybody could have passed and left the drug there. The lawyer further stated that Williams was arrested because she was the only person present at the time of the search.
Noting that no special reasons were given for bail to be granted, Magistrate McLennan refused bail.
Williams is expected to make her next court appearance on October 24th at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court.
