TWO Traffic constables attached to the Central Police Station in New Amsterdam were on Monday afternoon observed acting suspiciously around a hire car owned by one of them after their tour of duty had ended. They ended up being busted with a quantity of marijuana.

‘B’ Division Commander Errol Watts has since confirmed that the ranks have been placed under close arrest and the matter is currently being handled by Criminal Investigation Department ranks in Georgetown.

Guyana Chronicle understands that the behaviour of the cops caught the attention of a senior officer, and he questioned their presence in the vicinity at that time. Not being pleased with the ranks’ response, the officer requested the keys to the heavily-tinted vehicle; and when the constables refused to grant that request, the officer decided to break the driver’s side window to gain entry into the car.

The senior officer reportedly searched the inside of the car but found nothing. However, upon opening the trunk, he found a rice bag in which a shoulder bag was concealed. On opening the shoulder bag, the officer discovered two transparent plastic bags which contained leaves, stems and seeds believed to be from the cannabis sativa (marijuana) plant.

The two constables were promptly placed under close arrest, and the items, which in their presence were found to weigh 5kg, were seized. The two ranks were told of the offence and statements were taken from them.

The policemen have since denied knowledge and/or ownership of the bag and its contents. Investigations are continuing.