Sonnil Gabriel Derafil,  a 29-year-old national of the Dominican Republic, was charged for possession of marijuana for the purpose of trafficking by members of the North Eastern Division (NED) Gang/Intelligence Unit.

On Sunday 25th March, officers under the supervision of Sgt Mitchell, went to Erin Road, Siparia. Based on intelligence gathered, they intercepted a white Nissan panel van.

Upon seeing the officers, the two occupants alighted the vehicle and ran. Officers caught the suspects a short distance away.

A search of the panel van revealed a quantity of plastic wrapped items. Police found the items to be marijuana amounting to 106.24 kilogrammes with an estimated street value of $2,860,000. The men were arrested by PC Bleasdell and conveyed to the Morvant Police station along with the marijuana. Derafil was subsequently charged.

 The accused is expected to appear virtually before the Siparia Magistrate Court tomorrow.

The exercise which was a part of Operation Strike Back was spearheaded by ACP Andy Belfon, Snr Winston Supt Maharaj, Supt Roger Alexander, Supt Ramjohn, ASP Beharry and coordinated by Insp Bharath.