A combined air, land and sea search by various arms of national security was carried out in the sleepy village of Icacos yesterday, after some 38 pounds of marijuana washed up on the beach. South Western Division police made the seizure after getting information that villagers who realised the drug was washing ashore were collecting it and drying it on their premises.
During the exercise, police, led by Senior Supt Richardson, Supt John and Insp Parryman and Ramdeen, searched several homes in the area and arrested two brothers aged 18 and 21. The search, by the police canine and helicopter units, coast guard and customs, continued for several hours. Police believe the marijuana came from Venezuela and suspect there may have been an incident at sea, causing the drugs to spill over and wash ashore.
The search is expected to continue today. Meanwhile, Central Division police are asking all medical institutions to be on the lookout for people seeking treatment for gunshot wounds. The call came from Snr Supt Johnny Abraham following a shooting at Lisas Gardens, Couva, on Tuesday night. Abraham said police acting on information tried to stop a car at Lisas Gardens, but the occupants opened fire on them. He said police returned fire, but the men escaped.
The police suspect some of the occupants may have been hit by police bullets. Investigations are continuing.