Law enforcement officials are intensifying their efforts to combat illicit activities on the island through a series of strategic operations.
Recent joint initiatives in the southern and central divisions have led to the confiscation of controlled substances and the arrest of several suspects.
On May 27, teams from the Gangs, Narcotics and Firearms Unit, Central Intelligence Unit, Special Operations Team, Tactical Response Unit, and the Department of Road Safety and Traffic Investigations conducted a major operation in the central sector. They patrolled areas including Wiltons Yard, Grass Street, Jeremie Street, Lewis Street, and Faux A Chaux, while also conducting traffic checks at key locations such as Deglos, Bexon, Sarrot, Ti Rocher, Chaussee, Bagatelle, Marchand, Union, Vigie, Calvary Road, and Union.
The traffic checks yielded significant results:
– 488 vehicles were stopped
– 27 vehicles were searched
– 107 persons were searched
– 50 tickets were issued
– 5 vehicles were impounded
– 1 arrest for a traffic offense
– 6 knives and 15 scissors were recovered
– 25 grams of cannabis were seized
Additionally, the Gangs, Narcotics and Firearms Unit, alongside the Customs & Excise Department, conducted a search at the Vieux Fort seaport, resulting in the seizure of 4.70 kilograms of cannabis resin from a consignment addressed to Hayasher Gilbert of Au Leon, Dennery.
Gilbert faces multiple charges, including:
– Possession of Controlled Drugs (Cannabis Resin)
– Possession of Controlled Drugs with Intent to Supply
– Importation of a Controlled Drug
On May 28, Gilbert appeared at the Second District Court and was granted bail set at $55,000 cash or suitable surety.
This successful operation highlights the commitment of the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) and its partners to combating illicit trafficking and enhancing border security. The Department of Road Safety and Traffic Investigations also urges motorists to drive cautiously and adhere to traffic laws.
Further joint operations in the communities of Piaye and Laborie resulted in the recovery of controlled drugs and an additional arrest. On May 23, officers from the Gangs, Narcotics and Firearms Unit and the Laborie Police Station executed a search at the apartment of Valentine Jacob Charles in Piaye, uncovering a significant quantity of cannabis.
Jacob was arrested and charged with Possession of Controlled Drugs and Possession of Controlled Drugs with Intent to Supply. He was granted bail in the amount of $2,000 for possession and $3,000 for intent to supply during his court appearance on May 26.
These operations underscore the RSLPF’s ongoing commitment to ensure public safety and maintain the rule of law within the community.