Law enforcement officers are ramping up their efforts to combat crime through a series of coordinated operations aimed at eradicating criminal activity and ensuring law and order in the country.
On May 28, officers from the Gangs, Narcotics, and Firearms Unit (GNFU), supported by the Criminal Investigations Department, Central Intelligence Unit, and Tactical Response Unit, conducted a joint operation in the communities of Wilton’s Yard, Belair, and Dierre Fort.
During a search warrant execution at a residence in Wilton’s Yard, officers seized a quantity of suspected cannabis and cannabis plants, leading to the arrest of Ishon Joseph, 21.
In Dierre Fort, searches yielded another quantity of suspected cannabis and several cannabis plants, resulting in the arrest of six individuals: Naheem Samuel, 21; Thecla Joseph, 45; Marcus Joseph, 46; Leon James, 21, alias “Tikko Bolom”; Ryan Louis, 36, alias “Spartacus”; and a 17-year-old male juvenile.
Additionally, in Belair, a separate search warrant led to the arrest of Kerius Polius, 31, alias “Shortcrop,” who was wanted in connection with an armed robbery that occurred on May 7, 2026, along Darling Road, Castries. On May 29, those arrested—Ishon Joseph, Naheem Samuel, Thecla Joseph, Marcus Joseph, Leon James, Ryan Louis, and the juvenile—were formally charged with cultivation of cannabis, possession of a controlled drug, and possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply.
Following this, Naheem Samuel, Thecla Joseph, Marcus Joseph, Leon James, Ryan Louis, and the male juvenile appeared before the First District Court and were granted bail on their own recognizance for $1,500.
On June 1, Ishon Joseph was escorted to the First District Court in Castries, where he pleaded guilty to the charges. He was fined $4,200 and placed on probation for one year, with the requirement to pay the fine within six months or face six months’ imprisonment.
On June 2, Kerius Polius was formally charged with robbery and possession of ammunition without a valid license. He appeared before the First District Court on June 3, where bail was set at $5,000 for the robbery charge and $10,000 for the possession of ammunition charge.
Meanwhile, RSLPF has intensified efforts to combat criminal activity within the city circuit, resulting in the apprehension of several suspects for various offenses.
On Friday, May 29, the RSLPF executed a collaborative operation across multiple communities in the central division. This operation primarily focused on traffic enforcement through vehicular checkpoints and snap checks, alongside mobile and foot patrols, and targeted sweeps of identified high-crime areas.
Key outcomes from the operation included:
– 379 vehicles stopped and checked.
– 22 vehicles searched.
– 56 individuals searched.
– 26 traffic tickets issued.
– 3 vehicles impounded for traffic-related offenses.
– Recovery of prohibited items and weapons.
During the operation, police received multiple reports from residents in the Agard community regarding gunfire near a social event. Officers responded promptly, locating a male suspect armed with a firearm.
The suspect fled into his residence but was pursued by officers. A thorough search led to the recovery of a pistol.
Consequently, Uranus Augustin, 49, of Agard, Morne Du Don, was arrested and charged with Possession of a Firearm. He was formally charged on Monday, June 1, and appeared before the District Court on Tuesday, June 2, where he was granted bail set at EC$20,000 or suitable surety in double that amount, along with conditions imposed by the court.
In a separate incident, officers at a police checkpoint in Bocage signaled a motor vehicle to stop; however, the male driver failed to comply and attempted to flee.
During the encounter, the driver sustained a gunshot injury and was transported to the Owen King EU Hospital, where he remains under medical care.
Upon his release, he is expected to be charged with Failing to Comply, an offense that carries a maximum penalty of EC$10,000.
The RSLPF is committed to proactive policing initiatives aimed at reducing crime, removing illegal firearms from communities, enhancing road safety, and ensuring the safety and security of all citizens and visitors. The public is reminded that police officers have the legal authority, under Section 570(7) of the Criminal Code of Saint Lucia, to enter and search any location, including a dwelling house, without a warrant when pursuing a person with lawful grounds for arrest.
Community members are urged not to obstruct or assist individuals attempting to evade lawful arrest, as such actions may constitute a criminal offense.
The RSLPF remains dedicated to enforcing the law and ensuring the safety and security of all communities throughout Saint Lucia.