The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) is actively conducting major operations to combat the alarming surge in gun violence in the country.
On July 10, officers achieved a significant breakthrough at the Rose Hill/Morne Du Don Junction around 6:00 p.m. when they encountered a suspicious individual near Wiltons Yard.
Upon searching this individual, they seized two illegal firearms: a Glock .45 pistol loaded with fourteen (14) rounds of ammunition and a black pistol loaded with seventeen (17) rounds of 9mm ammunition. The individual has been identified as Derek Charles.
On July 11, Derek Charles, 19, of La Feuillet, Monchy, was officially charged with Possession of a Firearm and Possession of Ammunition.
Subsequently, on July 14, he was presented in the First District Court for bail considerations and was granted bail set at $90,000 along with additional court conditions.
The RSLPF commends all units involved in this operation, emphasizing that their professionalism and dedication played a crucial role in its success. The RSLPF remains resolute in their commitment to protect citizens and ensure the safety and security of communities across the island.
In another significant case, an American national was fined $6,000 for possession of cannabis at Saint Lucia’s southern airport.
During a routine security operation at Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) on July 12, authorities uncovered a substantial quantity of cannabis in the luggage of Michael Garrick Charlemagne, a thirty-five (35)-year-old American.
This joint operation, executed by the GNF Southern Detachment and Customs officials, specifically targeted passengers arriving on Delta Flight 1064 from Atlanta.
Charlemagne was found in possession of thirteen (13) vacuum-sealed packages of cannabis, pre-rolled joints, vapes, and rolling papers, amounting to a total weight valued at EC$1,825.
Following his arrest, Charlemagne was charged on July 13 with three offenses:
– Possession of a Controlled Drug (cannabis)
– Possession with Intent to Supply
– Importation of a Controlled Drug
He was detained and transported to the Second District Court at Bordelais Correctional Facility for his first hearing on July 14.
In court, Charlemagne accepted his guilt regarding the charges, resulting in a fine of EC$6,000, which must be paid by July 18. Failure to comply will lead to a three-month prison sentence.