Raphael Tony, also known as Raphael Watts, of Zeelugt Housing Scheme, East Bank Essequibo, appeared before Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court yesterday on charges of illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition.
Tony was accused of possessing a 9mm pistol and 10 rounds of 9mm ammunition on October 21, 2024, at Cornhill Street, Stabroek, without holding a firearm licence.
The prosecution objected to bail due to the gravity of the offence, alleging that Tony was found in a vehicle with another individual. During a search, they claimed, the firearm was discovered inside a bag Tony was carrying, asserting he had both knowledge and control of the weapon.
When given the opportunity to respond, Tony told the court that the firearm was actually found on the car’s front passenger seat and not in his possession. Despite his statement, Magistrate McGusty upheld the prosecution’s objections and denied bail, resulting in Tony being remanded to prison.
