Legislation Dealing with Firearm Offences to Be Reviewed and Strengthened

Legislation dealing with firearm offences will be reviewed and strengthened to tackle gangsters who cause mayhem in communities, says Minister of National Security, Hon. Dr. Horace Chang.

Speaking while on a visit to Cherry Tree Lane in Clarendon on August 12, the Minister said the killing of eight persons in the community by men with high-powered guns has shocked the entire nation, and the gangsters are being pursued.

The Minister emphasised that all the legislation dealing with gun crimes must get urgent attention, pointing out that “we (Government) will take every step to protect citizens, prevent reprisals and apprehend members of the gangs”.

Dr. Chang, who is also the Deputy Prime Minister, said it was an act of terror on the community, and the police are making every effort to nab the killers, and “we will give them the required support”.

Since the incident on August 11, a 96-hour curfew has been imposed in several communities in the parish.

The curfew began at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, August 12 and will remain in effect until 10:00 a.m. on Friday, August 16.

It covers communities such as Western Park, Cherry Tree Lane, Havannah Heights, Treadlight and York Town.

Under the new Firearms (Prohibition, Restriction and Regulation) Act, 2022, which is now in effect, persons who are convicted for possession, trade in firearms and ammunition can face penalties ranging from 15 years to life imprisonment.

The legislation establishes a dual regime, distinguishing between prohibited weapons or unregulated firearms and activities connected thereto and firearms that are duly authorised or registered.

Illegal firearms feature in 85 per cent of murders and violent crimes committed across the island.