Seven held after discovery of M15 rifle

A father and his two sons are among seven men who were arrested following the discovery of an illegal M15 rifle in a car on Wednesday night.

Crime Chief Leslie James told Stabroek News that the father turned himself into police after six persons were arrested and claimed ownership of the weapon.

Police said in a press release that at around 2240 hours ranks of a mobile police patrol conducted a search on a motor vehicle at Sussex Street, Georgetown, during which an M15 rifle along with thirty .223 rounds were found.

Stabroek News was unable to ascertain if any of those arrested have been released.

James following inquiries from this newspaper said that the motor vehicle was parked on the roadway when ranks conducted the search. It would appear that the ranks were acting on information provided to them.

James said that six men including a 19-year-old and a 21-year-old were subsequently arrested.

The father of the duo later came forward. Stabroek News was made to understand that the weapon was acquired to be used for security purposes in the interior.

James said too that approximately five illegal weapons have been retrieved by the police so far this year. He said that the force’s current posture with members of the public and its intelligence gathering have helped in this regard.

Investigations are continuing.