Three security officers and the owner of a private security firm from Industry, East Coast Demerara (ECD), are now in Police custody for being in possession of firearms and ammunition without the necessary permits.
Based on reports received, Police conducted an operation on Tuesday at a supermarket and a shopping mall in Sophia, Greater Georgetown, as well as a supermarket in Lusignan, ECD, where the security officers had the illegal firearms in their possession.
Arrested is a 31-year-old security officer from Sophia, who was on duty at a supermarket in Sophia, was found in possession of an airsoft rifle and was unable to produce a permit.
In addition, Police stated that at another location, a 34-year-old male from B Field, Sophia, who was on duty at a shopping mall in Sophia, Greater Georgetown, was found armed with a 12-gauge shotgun containing two live cartridges.
Checks revealed that the serial number had been filed off, and no licence or permit was produced.
Further, an airsoft rifle was found close to a guard hut, resulting in the arrest of a 38-year-old male from Cummings Park, Cummings Lodge, ECD, who was on duty at a supermarket in Lusignan and stated that the firearm had been issued at the commencement of his tour of duty.
Meanwhile, subsequent investigations led the ranks to the supervisor and owner of the security service, a 40-year-old male who had five airsoft firearms: three airsoft pistols and two airsoft rifles. At the time, he failed to produce permits or licences for the firearms.
A total of eight firearms and ammunition were processed and lodged pending further investigation. The suspects remain in custody.