Two North Rupununi farmers were on Monday separately charged with gun and ammunition possession.
In the courtroom of Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in Georgetown, Eugene Joel, 72, of Yakarinta, Region 9, was read three charges. It was alleged that on January 19, at Toka Village, North Rupununi, he had in his possession a 20-gauge cartridge as well as components of a firearm, that is to say a 12-gauge spent shell, and six 20-gauge spent shells while not being a holder of a firearm licence. Joel pleaded not guilty to all three of the charges that were read to him.
Meanwhile, Randolph Andres, 38, of Toka Village, Region 9, was read four charges. It was alleged that on the same day, at Toka Village, he had in his possession a 20-gauge shotgun, a 20-gauge cartridge, and components of ammunition, that is to say a 12-gauge spent shell and a 20-gauge spent shell, all while not being a holder of a firearm licence. Andres also pleaded not guilty to his charges.
Attorney Jerome Khan, who represented the men, told the court that Joel and Andres were arrested by the police at their farm. Khan told the court that the charges against Joel were for being in possession of spent shells, which meant that they were not live rounds. Khan said that the gun and the spent shells have nothing to do with his clients, while noting that they belonged to Joel’s son, who is a licensed firearm holder. The lawyer said that Joel’s son was not present at the time of the police’s raid.
He also told the court that the two men are well known in their community since they donate meat to the children’s feeding programme in the hinterland. Khan also hinted that these charges could have stemmed from an issue which arose when a small component of a shell was found in the food of a student that the men cater to in the feeding programme. Khan said that the matter was since reported and an investigation was carried out.
Police Prosecutor Deniro Jones objected to bail for both of the men. Jones said that the police, acting on information, went to the defendants’ camp and conducted a search that uncovered the firearm and spent shells. The prosecutor said Andres told the officers that the gun belonged to Joel.
Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan, who heard the matters separately, granted Joel $100,000 bail, while Andres was remanded to prison. Their matters were adjourned until March 7, when they will be called at the Lethem Magistrate’s Court.
