Four residents of Bartica have been arrested and charged with possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking after authorities uncovered 272 grams of cannabis in their possession.
The accused individuals are:
Tecina Angel Wills, a 22-year-old firewoman from Two and a Half Miles, Bartica-Potaro Road
Rhon Smith, a 36-year-old labourer from Mora Camp, Bartica
Walter Benn, a 27-year-old prison officer from Mora Camp, Bartica
Melissa Allen, a 28-year-old vendor from Mora Camp, Bartica, Essequibo River
The arrests took place on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, and the charges were filed the following day, January 30, 2025.
On Tuesday, January 6, 2026, the accused appeared at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Teriq Mohammed for trial proceedings. In the verdicts rendered, Tecina Angel Wills and Rhon Smith were both found guilty and sentenced to two years in prison. Walter Benn pleaded guilty and received a three-year sentence.
However, Melissa Allen was found not guilty, and the charges against her were dropped.
This case underscores ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in the region, with local authorities continuing to prioritize public safety and community health.
