Cops: 2 Las Cuevas

Two Las Cuevas men have been confirmed among five nationals currently detained by Venezuelan authorities, after they were allegedly held on their way to collect a shipment of guns and illegal drugs to bring back to Trinidad.

Guardian Media was told by police sources that the two men are reportedly linked to criminal gangs operating along the North Coast – while the lone Venezuelan operative was said to be affiliated with the organised crime syndicate Tren de Aragua.

The vessel, which was intercepted approximately 60 nautical miles off Cabo Codera, Venezuela, between August 13 and 14, was allegedly en route to collect narcotics and firearms destined for Trinidad.

Venezuelan officials also seized 3,000 litres of fuel, along with a large quantity of contraband on board.

Senior police sources yesterday claimed the locals detained aboard the vessel had been linked to an incarcerated gang leader in Trinidad. The owner of the boat is currently incarcerated, while the captain of the vessel was said to be from Tobago.

It is alleged the suspects are linked to a criminal outfit which would have suffered a blow earlier this year, when an alleged associate was gunned down at the Piarco International Airport.

Akim “Sours” Quash was shot multiple times on April 17 as he walked out of Arrivals and later died at hospital.

— Anna-Lisa Paul