TWO ranks from the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) were arrested by police at about 03:45hrs on Thursday after 22 bulky bags containing 154 lbs of cannabis were allegedly found in the vehicle they were travelling in.
According to a press release from the Guyana Police Force (GPF), the discovery was made after ranks from Special Branch and Regional Division 4’B’, during a joint intelligence-led police operation, stopped and searched the vehicle.
“The two ranks were in a motor vehicle (DFB 1786) belonging to the Guyana Defence Force. The vehicle was being driven at the time by a 31-year-old GDF Sergeant from Turkeyen. The other occupant of the vehicle was a 42-year-old GDF Staff Sergeant from Linden. Both men are stationed at GDF’s Camp Ayanganna Headquarters.

“Police stopped the vehicle along the Coverden Public Road, East Bank Demerara, in the vicinity of the Prairie Hotel, and a search was conducted during which 22 bulky bags were found. The bags contained a quantity of leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis.

“The two GDF ranks were told of the offence of trafficking in narcotics and cautioned. They were both arrested and escorted to the Regional Police Division 4’B’ Headquarters, where the suspected cannabis was weighed and amounted to 154 lbs,” the police said.

The two GDF ranks are in custody as investigations continue.

Meanwhile, the GDF in a press release said it is also investigating.

“The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) is investigating an incident involving the transporting of marijuana in a service vehicle by two Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNOCs), Staff Sergeant Adisa Higgings and Sergeant Colvis Sam.

“The GDF is committed to maintaining the highest standards of conduct among its ranks and does not condone any behaviour that undermines the trust and confidence reposed in the Force by the public. The Force is fully collaborating with the Guyana Police Force to address this matter.

“The Force wishes to reassure the public that this incident is an anomaly and does not reflect the character and dedication of the men and women who serve. The GDF remains steadfast in its mission to protect and serve the people of Guyana with the highest level of professionalism and integrity,” a GDF release said.