Cops seize 271rounds of AK ammo during raid on ganja farms

– ex-policeman among four held

Police on Thursday exchanged gunfire with marijuana farmers and seized several rounds of AK-47 ammunition during a massive operation at 15 Miles, Ituni Backdam. The ranks also detained four suspects, including an ex-policeman, but two other men managed to escape on motorcycles. A police release stated that the ranks destroyed ten fields comprising about 5,000 cannabis sativa plants, ranging in height from one foot and seven feet. Three camps were also unearthed during the raids. Police are said to be looking for a Lindener known as ‘Rattie’, who is believed to be the gang’s ringleader. “During the operation the police ranks came under fire and returned fire as a result,” the release stated. “Four men were arrested and 271 rounds of 7.62 x 39 ammunition, three AK47 rifle magazines and a telescopic night vision lens were recovered by the police. Two other men managed to escape,” the release stated. According to police sources, one of the detained men told investigators that the alleged ringleader supplied them with firearms. Kaieteur News was told that the ranks found sophisticated irrigating systems which included pipes and sprinklers. Ranks are still in the area attempting to apprehend the alleged mastermind and his associates.