IN a late-night operation on Tuesday, police apprehended two SWAT ranks after suspected cannabis and drug paraphernalia were found in a rental vehicle they occupied.
Acting on a tip-off, a Police Inspector from the Special Branch, along with other ranks, stopped a Toyota Axio motor car bearing registration number PAJ 2421 at the intersection of Camp and New Market Streets at approximately 23:15 hours. The vehicle was driven by Police Lance Corporal, Kevin Thompson, with fellow SWAT rank Lance Corporal, Dwayne Perry, seated in the front passenger seat.

A search of the vehicle revealed a black travelling bag in the back seat containing leaves, seeds, and stems suspected to be cannabis, along with plastic wraps, a black scale, and a bag sealer. The total weight of the suspected narcotic was recorded as 748.4 grams.
Upon being informed of the offence and cautioned, both officers remained silent. They were subsequently arrested and escorted to the Narcotics Branch for processing. A detailed search of the vehicle yielded no additional evidence.

Investigations into the vehicle’s ownership revealed that it is registered to Diana Persaud of North Road, Lacytown. Further inquiries identified Stacy Hodge, a 40-year-old businesswoman from Providence, East Bank Demerara, and the reputed wife of Kevin Thompson, as the person in possession of the vehicle prior to the incident.

Hodge informed investigators that her personal vehicle, a red Lexus (PAJ 4770), had been involved in an accident about a week prior. Her insurance company arranged for the rental of the Axio from Elite Auto Rentals, located on Garnette Street, Kitty, while her vehicle was being repaired. She last used the rental on Thursday, January 10, 2025, and handed the keys to Thompson upon his request.

The vehicle has been lodged at the Alberttown Police Station for further examination. Meanwhile, searches conducted at the residences of both Thompson and Perry yielded no additional evidence. The two officers remain under close arrest as investigations continue.