Two men from Hotoquai in the North West District (NWD) were yesterday arrested after illegal shotguns were found on their farms.
At approximately 6am yesterday, Commander of Regional Division #1, Superintendent Krishna Ramana, led a team of Police ranks to the home of Guy Wells, a 28-year-old farmer to conduct a search following information received that he had in his possession illegal firearms and substances.
A release from the police said that the search was conducted but no evidence of illegal substances or firearms was found at Wells’ residence.
However, one of the detectives proceeded to search Wells’ farm land, located a short distance from his home. In the presence of Wells, Police discovered a single-barrel shotgun hidden in some bushes, which contained a live cartridge. Additionally, Police found a black ‘fanny pack’ containing three live cartridges and two spent cartridge shells, the release said.
Wells was asked if he held a licence for the firearm, to which he replied, “No.”
Police informed him of the offences committed: Possession of a firearm and ammunition without a licence, and cautioned him in accordance with the judge’s rules.
The release said that Wells responded, “Officer, I use this for my personal protection and for hunting.” He was subsequently arrested and placed in custody.
The release said that based on further information received, ranks proceeded to the home of Herbert Williams, a 36-year-old farmer from Hotoquai Village. A search conducted at his residence did not yield any evidence of illegal substances or firearms. However, Police conducted a search on Williams’ farm, also in his presence, and found a single-barrel shotgun.
Williams was asked if he held a licence for the firearm and he replied in the negative.
The release said that Williams stated that he had purchased the firearm for $10,000 from a man in Yarakita Village, NWD, a few years ago and used it for his protection and hunting.
Both Wells and Williams were escorted to the Mabaruma Police Station, along with the firearms and cartridges.
