TT: Defence Forces locked down

THE Trinidad and Tobago Regiment’s Camp Ogden base in St James was locked down yesterday and all the soldiers have been confined to barracks, after the disappearance of two hi-powered Galil assault rifles. Considered the most lethal firearm used by the army, coast guard and police, a single Galil magazine carries 25 to 35 rounds of ammunition which can be discharged at a rate of 650 rounds per minute and at a range of 500 to 600 metres. The weapons were reported missing from the Bravo Company at Camp Ogden and eight soldiers (five recruits and three privates) are currently under investigation for the missing rifles. The army is also reportedly investigating a similar incident a few months ago, which involved the disappearance of three to four weapons from Camp Ogden. Two weeks ago, two soldiers were arrested and charged for possession of 1,000 rounds of ammunition.