GUYANA Defence Force (GDF) Lance Corporal Nicholas James of 104 South Better Hope was remanded yesterday after he appeared before City Magistrate Fabayo Azore charged with possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking. James, 33, a 14-year serving member of the Army, pleaded not guilty to the charge which stated that on the November 27 at Devil Hole Landing, he had in his possession 278 grams of cannabis.
According to the facts related by police Prosecutor Payne, on the day in question, ranks were conducting foot patrols when they noticed James acting in a suspicious manner. A rank after identifying himself requested that a search be carried out. The cannabis was alleged to have been found on his person.
His lawyer said his client along with another officer went to the area to collect a vehicle, when the ranks saw a bag which contained leaves, seeds and stems, suspected to be cannabis. After the other individuals ran away he was arrested by the police and charged.
The lawyer told the court that his client had no knowledge or control of the items and he was co-operating with the police. He requested that James be placed in the custody of the GDF, as opposed to Camp Street, considering his rank and the fact that he had no previous lapses.
His request was denied and James was remanded until December 7.