Police seize firearms in East Coast, Rupununi operations

February 3 2026

Police are investigating two separate firearm-related incidents that occurred on Monday, February 2, 2026, resulting in the seizure of weapons, ammunition, and the arrest of suspects in Regions Four and Nine.

In the first incident, ranks in Regional Division #4 ‘C’ responded to reports of gunshots at around 21:00 hrs along Oil Mill Road, Cove and John, East Coast Demerara.

Upon arrival, police observed a group of men gathered at a residence.

During enquiries, one man reportedly acted suspiciously and was seen placing an object among plants in a nearby yard.

A subsequent search led to the discovery of a .32 Taurus pistol fitted with one magazine containing eight live rounds.

Police also recovered three spent shells from the roadway. The suspect, a 37-year-old construction worker from Cove and John, was arrested after admitting he does not possess a firearm licence.

The weapon and ammunition were secured as investigations continue.

In a separate matter in Regional Division #9, police are probing the discovery of a suspected firearm and ammunition at Hiawa Village, Central Rupununi, around 19:05 hrs on the same day.

While on mobile patrol responding to reports of threatening behaviour, ranks were handed a white rice bag by a 53-year-old CPG worker.

The bag contained a 20-gauge shotgun, two cartridges, and one empty casing. Further investigations led police to a 31-year-old male teacher from the same village, who was questioned and later arrested after stating he does not hold a firearm licence.

The suspected firearm and ammunition were lodged at the Lethem Police Station as investigations continue into both incidents.

Police have assured the public that efforts are ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding these cases.