Kingstown, St. Vincent – January 28, 2025 – The Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) has made a major breakthrough in its fight against illegal drug trafficking and firearm possession. A recent police operation in Chateaubelair led to the arrest of two residents and the seizure of an unlicensed firearm, a large quantity of cannabis, and over $27,000 EC in cash suspected to be linked to illicit activities.
According to a statement from the Public Relations and Complaints Department of the RSVGPF, the arrests took place on Sunday, January 26, 2025, when officers executed a search warrant at a property in Sharpes, Chateaubelair.
During the operation, police recovered a twelve-gauge shotgun, confirmed to be functional, and 26,786 grammes of cannabis. Additionally, Desroy Samuel, 37, was charged separately for the possession of 454 grammes of cannabis. Officers also confiscated a total of $27,657 EC, comprising $9,500 EC and €6,700 Euros, which authorities suspect to be proceeds of drug trafficking and money laundering.
Legal Proceedings
Both Desroy Samuel and Kemon Samuel, 35, have been charged with possession of an unlicensed firearm, drug trafficking, possession of controlled drugs, and money laundering. The Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) has been engaged to investigate the source of the cash.
The accused appeared before the Serious Offences Court (SOC) on January 28, 2025. According to the RSVGPF’s statement, Desroy Samuel pleaded guilty to possession of 454 grammes of cannabis and was granted bail at $15,000 EC with the following conditions:
- He must report to the Chateaubelair Police Station every Monday between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.
- He must surrender all travel documents.
- Stop notices have been placed at all ports of entry and exit.
- His matter has been adjourned to February 25, 2025.
Meanwhile, both men pleaded not guilty to possession of 26,786 grammes of cannabis and the unlicensed firearm. They were each granted bail at $15,000 EC under similar conditions, with their matter also adjourned to February 25, 2025.
Authorities Urge Compliance with Legal Cannabis Industry
The RSVGPF reiterated its commitment to tackling illegal drugs and firearms while recognizing the legal framework under the Medicinal Cannabis Industry Act of 2018.
The statement highlighted that the Act allows for regulated cultivation, distribution, and research of medicinal cannabis through licensing from the Medicinal Cannabis Authority.
“We encourage those who wish to participate in this growing industry to follow the legal route rather than engage in illegal activities that could lead to severe fines or imprisonment,” the RSVGPF stated.
Public Encouraged to Report Criminal Activity
The police force has urged citizens to report suspicious activities, emphasizing that public cooperation is crucial in ensuring national security.
Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact the police via:
- Police Control: (784) 457-1211
- Emergency: 911
- Public Relations and Complaints Department: (784) 485-6891
This latest operation marks another step in the RSVGPF’s continued crackdown on illicit drug trade and firearm possession across the country. The investigation remains ongoing.