NINETEEN-year-old Ellison Johnson of Lethem, a miner, appeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman on Monday to answer a charge that he stole a magic mat, which is used for trapping gold. Johnson pleaded not guilty to the charge which stated that he stole the mat valued at $50,000, property of Seon David on February 20, 2016 at Aranka Backdam, Essequibo.

Police Prosecutor Kerry Bostwick objected to bail on the grounds that Johnson had admitted under caution to the police that he stole the item. He further stated that other charges were being investigated and were likely to be brought against him.

Johnson was denied bail and is to appear before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan on Friday for assignment of the case.