Forest ranger charged over gun, ammo

A ranger attached to the Ministry of Forestry was yesterday remanded to prison after he was charged with having an illegal gun and ammunition in his possession.

Michael Edwards, 37, of Bartica, pleaded not guilty when the charges were read by Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.

It was alleged that on October 12 at Byderabo Road, Bartica, he had in his possession an unlicensed firearm and ammunition without lawful authority or reasonable cause.

Attorney Peter Hugh while making a bail application for his client said that he has never had in trouble with the law and is not a flight risk.

He asked that reasonable bail be granted.

Prosecutor Bharrat Mangru said that on October 12, Edwards was clearing the handgun when a bullet was accidentally fired, which hit a family member in the left arm.

The matter was reported and he was arrested.

He objected to bail stating that no special reasons were given by the defendant and added that the investigations are still ongoing. He said other charges were likely.

Edwards was remanded to prison until October 23 and the case was transferred to the Bartica Magistrate Court.