Orangel Antonio Castro Rodrigues of Baramita, Region One, appeared at the Port Kaituma Magistrates’ Court before Magistrate Rabindranauth Singh.

Rodrigues pleaded not guilty to the charges, which alleged that on February 27, 2025, at Triangle Backdam, Baramita North West, he had in his possession one 12-gauge shotgun with serial number AV60664E and 12 matching live ammunition without being the holder of a firearm license. It is also alleged that on the same day at the said address, he had in his possession one 16-gauge shotgun with serial number 10-05 and three matching live ammunition without being the holder of a firearm license. Rodrigues also allegedly assaulted Yulismar Rodrigues on February 26, 2025, at Triangle Backdam, Baramita North West, causing her actual bodily harm.

He was represented by attorney Bernard DaSilva, who requested bail on his behalf. DaSilva indicated to the court that the prosecution is not ready and their investigation is incomplete. He added that due to the nature of the investigation and the frequency with which the court sits, it will likely create unnecessary and prolonged delays. He reassured the court that his client is not a flight risk and that the firearms and ammunition were not found on Rodrigues, but rather in some bushes away from his camp in the backdam. Magistrate Singh released Rodrigues on $150,000 bail for the four firearm and ammunition charges, a total of $600,000. He was released on self-bail for the assault causing actual bodily harm charge, and is required to report to the Baramita Police Station on the last Friday of each month. The matter was adjourned until June 10, 2025. (Kaieteur News)