According to Inspector Shervon Mathieu, who leads the GNFU, “These recent operations underscore the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force’s unwavering commitment to dismantling organised crime through precision policing, strategic intelligence, interagency collaboration, and international partnerships.”
On June 27, 2025, police launched “Operation Cargo Watch,” targeting the illegal importation of controlled drugs via air cargo from Toronto, Canada. The operation led to the arrest of Shaquille M. Walker of Castries and Andrina Epiphane, a Customs and Excise Department executive officer based in Vieux Fort.
“Surveillance efforts led officers to intercept two motor vehicles linked to the suspects. Their behaviour raised suspicion, prompting searches of both vehicles.”
The search revealed four kilograms of compressed cannabis concealed in a Froot Loops cereal box and two kilograms of cannabis resin hidden in an air bed box.
Both individuals were arrested and charged with several offences, including:
- Possession of cannabis
- Possession of cannabis resin
- Possession with intent to supply
- Importation of controlled substances
They were each granted bail of EC $50,000, either in cash or with a suitable surety.
On July 3, following credible intelligence, the GNFU North and South teams executed an anti-drug operation in Dennery Village and Ti Tous Beach.
“Following several hours of surveillance and thorough searches, officers discovered 45 bricks of suspected cocaine in two large sacks,” said Mathieu. “The total seizure weighed approximately 50 kilograms, with an estimated street value of EC $1.3 million.”
On July 4, police intercepted Quintin Taylor, also known as “Quincy,” during a snap vehicle check in the same area. He was found in possession of 105 grams of cannabis resin.
Taylor was charged with possession of a controlled drug and possession with intent to supply. He was granted bail and is expected to appear in court.
In a separate operation, Chester Garner Ernest, a dual citizen of Saint Lucia and the United States, was formally charged on July 4 with three counts of firearm importation under Section 31A of the Firearms (Amendment) Act.
The charges stem from a December 2024 search at his Careille residence, where police discovered:
- One Cobra .380 pistol hidden in a pair of sneakers
- 264 rounds of ammunition stashed in a false air-conditioning vent
- A firearm cleaning kit and compressed cannabis
Further investigations linked Ernest to a 2022 seizure at Shed 6, Port Castries, where authorities recovered three AR-15 rifles, tactical gear, and high-capacity magazines.
“This investigation also involves international cooperation, particularly with the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF),” Mathieu confirmed. Ernest is scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday, July 8, 2025.
On July 7, acting on intelligence regarding a possible illegal firearm transaction, officers conducted a high-priority operation in Odlum City, Bois Patat.
“A search of a premises resulted in the discovery of one suspected AR-15 rifle, two high-capacity magazines, and multiple rounds of ammunition,” said Inspector Mathieu. “The serial number on the firearm appeared to have been tampered with.”
The items were handed over to the Scenes of Crime Unit for forensic analysis. No arrests have yet been made in connection to the seizure.
The RSLPF is calling on the public to remain vigilant.
“We encourage members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity by calling the 555 hotline or using other anonymous tip lines,” said Inspector Mathieu.
