Steve Armstrong, an excavator operator who police say was caught with a loaded pistol after they intercepted a bus in which he was travelling, was yesterday remanded to prison by a city court on two charges.
Armstrong is charged with having in his possession a .32 pistol on February 2nd at Lombard Street, without being the holder of a firearm licence.
He is also charged with having nine live .32 rounds in his possession on the same date and at the same location.
The 24-year-old pleaded not guilty to both charges.
The prosecutor stated that on the day in question, ranks who were on patrol responded to a report that a man was seen in a minibus with a gun. The ranks intercepted the minibus and Armstrong exited and ran away. He was apprehended and the firearm was found on him.
Stabroek News had previously reported that the vehicle was intercepted in the vicinity of Laparkan Shipping on Lombard Street and the suspect immediately exited the vehicle.
Police said he attempted to escape and held on to the crotch of his pants firmly
The ranks, however, chased behind the man and were able to apprehend him. A search was carried out immediately and the gun was found. Two cellular phones were also seized.
The prosecutor objected to bail being granted due to the seriousness of the offence.
Armstrong also disclosed that he has an ongoing matter at the Providence Magistrate’s Court.
As a result, Magistrate Judy Latchman refused bail and adjourned the matter until February 26th.
