Rupununi teen remanded for Lethem arms cache find

Oct 05, 2012 News

Nineteen-year-old Benedict Thompson of Rupununi has been remanded to prison after being charged for the possession of a large quantity of arms and ammunition.
The accused made his appearance yesterday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court before Chief Magistrate (ag) Priya Sewnarine-Beharry.
It is alleged that on Monday, October 1st last at Tabatinga, Lethem, he had in his possession four M-70 automatic rifles, along with four magazines, and 389 rounds 7.62×39 caliber ammunition; six M-16 rifles along with two magazines and 74 matching rounds; and two shrapnel hand grenades, while not being the holder of a valid fire arm licence.
Thomas, who pleaded not guilty to the charges, was represented by defense counsel, Glenn Hanoman.

Remanded: Benedict Thompson, 19

Police Prosecutor, Wynette Hubbard, said that on the day in question, the accused was spotted by Police Constable Arjune and Corporal Innis with an AK-47 rifle. Hubbard told the court that the ranks approached the accused and questioned him. They were then taken to another location where the rest of the weapons and ammunition were found buried in a yard. The man was arrested and told of the offences, and subsequently charged.
However, the defense lawyer argued that his facts differed from what the Prosecutor said as it relates to his client being found walking with an AK-47 rifle.
Hanoman claimed that his client was beaten by a police rank identified as Corporal Innis. The lawyer said that his client was not allowed to be examined by a medical doctor for injuries he sustained to his back and left eye. Hanoman said at least two formal complaints were made to the police but nothing has been done.
As a matter of fact, Hanoman said, his client also pointed out the rank who allegedly abused him.
The lawyer stressed also that the police have expressed their interest in another man for whom the accused works. He disputed the police’s claim that his client was found with any weapon in his possession and said that the items were found buried.
The Magistrate then instructed the police to ensure that the accused is seen by a doctor since his injuries were seen on national television. She also recommended that an investigation be held into the allegation of the beating and charges be laid, if necessary.
The matter has been set down for December 4th at the Lethem Magistrate’s Court.
The Lethem businessman, said to be a contractor, went on the run, following the discovery of the weapons and ammo, reportedly in Brazil.