Law enforcement is actively investigating the discovery of several firearms and ammunition following an intelligence-led operation conducted on Tuesday. The operation targeted multiple locations, including a supermarket and a shopping mall in Sophia, Greater Georgetown, as well as a supermarket in Lusignan, East Coast Demerara.
During the operation, police engaged with several security guards employed by a private security service who were on duty at the respective sites.
At a supermarket in Sophia, a 31-year-old male security guard was found in possession of an airsoft rifle but was unable to produce a permit for the weapon.
At a shopping mall in Sophia, another security guard, a 34-year-old male from ‘B’ Field, was discovered carrying a 12-gauge shotgun loaded with two live cartridges. Further inspection revealed that the shotgun’s serial number had been filed off, and he failed to produce either a license or a precept to justify possession.
Additional searches at a third location led to the discovery of another airsoft rifle near a guard hut. The 38-year-old male security guard on duty at a supermarket in Lusignan claimed that the firearm had been issued to him at the beginning of his shift.
Investigative efforts then directed police to the supervisor and owner of the security service, a 40-year-old male from Industry, East Coast Demerara. A search of his motor vehicle uncovered five airsoft firearms, including three airsoft pistols and two airsoft rifles. Similar to the guards, he could not produce appropriate permits or licenses for these weapons.
In total, eight firearms were recovered along with two rounds of ammunition. All items have been processed and lodged as part of the ongoing investigation. The suspects involved have been taken into custody and are currently assisting police with inquiries related to the case.
The authorities continue to scrutinize the security service’s operations to ensure compliance with firearms regulations and preserve public safety.
