KINGSTON, Jamaica — A soldier has been charged in connection with one of the largest ever arms seizures at the Kingston Logistics Centre, carried out in December last year.

Thirty-six-year-old Odeen Lawrence, a member of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) from Dublin Castle and Kintyre in St Andrew was charged following the December 19 bust which resulted in the seizure of 28 firearms and 6,142 rounds of ammunition by the Firearms and Narcotics Investigation Division (FNID).

Lawrence surrendered to the police on January 6 after escaping a police operation on January 5.

Police say a subsequent search of his vehicle on January

7, conducted in his presence, revealed a 9mm round of ammunition in the glove compartment.

He was formally charged with conspiracy to traffic prohibited weapons and unauthorised possession of ammunition based on the findings from the investigation.

Investigations into the broader seizure of the 28 firearms and rounds of ammunition remain active, with further charges expected, police say.

Director of FNID, Superintendent of Police Patrae Rowe, said this seizure further highlights the JCF’s mandate to protect the people of Jamaica.

“This investigation remains active as we work to dismantle the channels that facilitate the flow of illegal weapons into our communities. Our mission is to uphold the law without fear or favour, regardless of the status or profession of those involved. We will continue to use every resource at our disposal to bring those who threaten the nation’s security to justice,” said Rowe.

Lawrence’s court date is being finalised.