North West farmer gets bail on unlicensed shotgun charge

A North West District farmer was yesterday granted his release on bail after denying a charge that he had an unlicensed shotgun.

Samuel James, 56, appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in George-town on the charge that on July 11, at William’s Place, Baramita Village, he was in possession of an unlicensed 16-gauge shotgun.

According to the facts presented by the police prosecutor, on the day in question, the police, acting on information, carried out a raid at James’ home, where the firearm was found in his room between two posts. Although the prosecutor objected to bail, the Chief Magistrate granted James $50,000 bail on the grounds that the prison has no space for inmates. The Camp Street Prison was destroyed on Sunday.

The matter was subsequently adjourned until August 9.

The shotgun that police say was found at Samuel James’ home