A Beterverwagting man, accused of having more than 14 kilogrammes of cannabis in his possession for trafficking, was yesterday denied bail by a city court.
Pete Stephens, 37, of 54 Republic Drive, Beterverwagting, was read a charge stating that on September 23, at First Avenue, Bartica, he had 14.61 kilogrammes of cannabis in his possession for trafficking.
The facts of the matter related by police prosecutor Deniro Jones are that on September 23, around 5pm, Bartica police saw the defendant acting suspiciously and carrying a bulky, black plastic bag. It is alleged that Stephens threw the bag into a parked car and attempted to run away, but was apprehended. The bag was opened in his presence and was found to contain the illegal substance.
However, Stephens’ attorney, Clyde Forde, told the court that his client had been sent on an assignment by his employer and the vehicle he was traveling in at the time was where the narcotics were uncovered. Forde claimed that Stephens had no knowledge of the substance found.
Bail was denied by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan on the grounds that no special reasons existed. The matter has been adjourned to October 12, when it is to be heard at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court.
