Kitty businessman remanded on gun, ammo charges

A businessman was yesterday placed on remand after making a court appearance before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan on an illegal gun possession charge.

The allegation against Orondel McKoy stated that on October 23 at William Street, Campbellville, he had in his possession a 9 mm pistol and 15 live rounds of matching ammunition without being the holder of a valid firearm licence.

McKoy pleaded not guilty to both charges while his lawyer Peter Hugh made an application for bail citing that the gun was not found in physical possession of his client.

Orondel McKoy
Orondel McKoy

According to Hugh, the gun and ammunition were found in the cupboard of one of the shops his client operates, adding that the shop is sometimes run by other individuals as he is usually split between there and another shop in Orange Walk.

However, according to Police Prosecutor Neville Jeffers, before the discovery was made, McKoy was asked if he was the only person who runs the shop and he confirmed that he was the sole operator of the business. Jeffers added that when the gun and ammunition were discovered, McKoy was the only person present.

Chief Magistrate subsequently placed him on remand, noting that no special reasons were given for bail to be granted.

McCoy is expected to make his next court appearance on November 16 before Magistrate Fabayo Azore.