An ex-soldier who was reportedly found in possession of an illegal firearm was granted bail when he appeared in the Manchester Parish Court on Wednesday.

Josh Campbell, a shop owner from Dobson district in Manchester, was given $800,000 bail and is to return to court on January 30 next year.

Campbell is charged with illegal possession of a firearm, two counts of illegal possession of ammunition, possession of and dealing in ganja and possession of uncustomed goods.

Allegations are that on November 17, while conducting investigations into an incident, police went to Dobson district where the soldier was seen and accosted at his business place.

Police said the shop was searched and illegal ammunition, vegetable matter resembling ganja and illegal cigarettes were found.

The shop owner’s car was also searched, and an illegal firearm found with several live rounds. The ex-soldier was taken into custody and following further investigations, was charged.