Community alarmed as Saint Lucia police seize firearms in Dennery
CASTRIES, St Lucia — March 5, 2024 — A coordinated operation by the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) has resulted in the seizure of high-powered firearms and a large cache of ammunition, following multiple raids in Dennery and surrounding areas.
The multi-agency effort involved officers from the Northern and Central Divisions, alongside the Southern Division Tactical Team, Bicycle Patrol Unit, and the Vulnerable Persons Team. Law enforcement executed six search warrants during the operation, which led to the arrest of five individuals for offenses including possession of prohibited firearms, possession of ammunition, and suspected money laundering.
Firearms, ammo, and foreign currency recovered
Authorities say several homes were searched in the Dennery area, resulting in the seizure of:
- One Glock 27 pistol with an auto sear
- One AR-15 assault rifle
- Sixty-six rounds of 5.56 mm ammunition
- Fifty-one rounds of .40 caliber ammunition
- Eight rounds of 9mm ammunition
- One magazine with thirty-seven rounds of 5.56 mm
- Fifteen rounds of .40 caliber ammunition (loaded in Glock)
- Cartridge casings
- An undisclosed amount of Euro currency
The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) noted that the firearms seized are commonly associated with high-risk criminal activity. Investigators say the cache could have contributed to gun-related violence if not intercepted.
Five arrested as criminal probe widens
Five individuals were taken into custody during the raids. Their identities have not yet been released, but police confirm they are facing charges under Saint Lucia’s Firearms Act and Proceeds of Crime legislation.
The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) also conducted roadside traffic checks in the area. Officers stopped forty-seven vehicles and issued thirteen traffic tickets for various violations, part of a broader effort to enforce road safety and lawful conduct during the operation.
Police step up enforcement amid rising crime concerns
This operation comes amid growing public concern over gun crime and reflects the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force’s (RSLPF) ongoing strategy to disrupt the circulation of illegal firearms across the island. The force has emphasized its zero-tolerance policy for gun offenses and is urging the public to remain vigilant.
In a statement, police encouraged residents to report any suspicious activity involving firearms or organized criminal behavior. Tips can be submitted anonymously through the Crime Hotline or local police stations.
The Dennery seizure follows a separate shooting incident reported earlier this week in Bagatelle, where two individuals were injured in a targeted attack. Read more about the Bagatelle shooting here.
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