2 Woonsocket Men Facing Gun, Cocaine Charges In Massachusetts

WOONSOCKET, RI — Two Woonsocket men were arrested in Massachusetts last week and are facing gun and drug charges

Blackstone, Massachusetts, police said they arrested Ibrahim Sylla, 23, and Bill Inthaphone, 30, on Friday night during a traffic stop. Police said they stopped the men because the vehicle they were in was not registered and was emitting an abnormally loud exhaust noise.

Prior to towing the vehicle, police searched it and said they discovered several small bags of white powder, which later tested positive for cocaine. Police said they also found a .22-caliber Beretta semi-automatic pistol under the driver's seat. Sylla did not have a license to carry a firearm, according to police.

"This is a great case that highlights the many things Blackstone police officers encounter on any given day," Blackstone Police Chief Gregory Gilmore said. "What started as a routine motor vehicle stop developed into multiple arrests, the seizure of narcotics, and most notably a dangerous firearm taken out of our community. Our officers never know what may happen during these routine stops, and their vigilance is commended."

Sylla was charged with possession of a class B substance (cocaine), possession of a firearm without a license, unregistered motor vehicle, and equipment violation. Inthaphone was charged with possession of a class B substance (cocaine).

Both men are expected to be arraigned Monday in Uxbridge, Massachusetts, District Court.

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