Chateaubelair men held on firearm, drug charges

Two Chateaubelair residents were charged in connection with an unlicensed firearm, a large quantity of cannabis, and a significant sum of cash suspected to be linked to drug trafficking and money laundering.

On Sunday, January 26, 2025, officers executed a search warrant that led to the arrest of Desroy Samuel, 37, and Kemon Samuel, 35, both of Sharpes, Chateaubelair.

During the search, officers recovered a twelve-gauge shotgun, later confirmed to be functional, and 26,786 grammes of cannabis. Furthermore, Desroy Samuel was charged with possession of a separate 454 grammes.

A total of $27,657 Eastern Caribbean Dollars (EC), consisting of $9,500 EC and €6,700 Euros, was also seized, suspected to be the proceeds of illicit activity. The Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) has been engaged to further investigate the source of the cash.

The accused appeared before the Serious Offences Court (SOC) on January 28, 2025:

Desroy Samuel pleaded guilty to possession of a controlled drug (454 grammes) and was granted bail at XCD$15,000  with one surety. His bail conditions include:

• Reporting to the Chateaubelair Police Station every Monday between 8:00 am. and 8:00 pm.
• Surrendering all travel documents
• Stop notices placed at all ports of entry and exit
• Matter adjourned to February 25, 2025

Desroy Samuel and Kemon Samuel appeared jointly for possession of a controlled drug (26,786 grammes) and possession of an unlicensed firearm. They both pleaded not guilty and were each granted bail at $15,000 EC with one surety. Their bail conditions include:

• Reporting to the Chateaubelair Police Station every Monday between 8:00 am. and 8:00 pm.
• Surrendering all travel documents
• Stop notices placed at all ports of entry and exit
• Matter adjourned to February 25, 2025

A release from the RSVGPF advised that St. Vincent and the Grenadines has a legal framework under the Medicinal Cannabis Industry Act of 2018, which allows individuals to cultivate and supply cannabis for medicinal purposes under a regulated system. This Act provides a pathway for Vincentians to obtain licenses for legal cannabis cultivation, distribution, and research under the oversight of the Medicinal Cannabis Authority. Persons who wish to participate in this growing industry are encouraged to follow the legal route rather than engage in illegal activities that could lead to severe fines or imprisonment.