MICHAEL Phillips, a mason of Lot 1572 South Ruimveldt, Georgetown, appeared before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry yesterday, charged with unlawful possession of firearm and ammunition.

He pleaded not guilty to the offences, particulars of which alleged that, on Friday, May 17, on Croal Street, in the city, as well, he had a revolver and six live rounds without being a holder of licences.
Police Sergeant Kerry Bostwick, prosecuting, said the defendant was standing in front of a beer garden when confronted and a search yielded the gun and bullets in his pants pocket.
Phillips told the court he was “smoking a joint” when the police approached and beat him up and, because he informed them that he will take a lawyer, they are trying to frame him.
The prosecutor successfully objected to bail, on the ground that the defendant has other cases, including another for narcotic and escaping from lawful custody in the West Demerara Magisterial District.
Phillips was remanded to prison until June 4.