BASSETERRE, St. Kitts — POLICE announced on Wednesday that Taj Frederick, 26, of Crab Hill, Sandy Point, has been charged in connection with the recent discovery of a gun and matching ammunition in the South East Peninsula area.
Frederick has taken full responsibility for the illegal weapon and ammunition.
The incident occurred during a stop and search operation on Monday (Aug. 5), conducted by officers from the Anti-Narcotics Unit of the Royal St. Christopher-Nevis Police Force.
During the search of motor car PB2754, officers discovered a 9 mm pistol and five rounds of matching ammunition inside the vehicle. Consequently, all three occupants of the car were taken into custody. Two have since been released.
On Wednesday (Aug. 7), Frederick, who was the driver of the vehicle, was formally arrested and charged with possession of an unlicensed firearm and possession of ammunition.
The police have intensified stop-and-search operations as part of their effort to combat illegal firearms and ammunition, in response to a recent increase in homicides in the Federation. This year, the federation has reported 22 homicides to date.
The police force has emphasized its commitment to ensuring public safety and addressing illegal activities within the community.