The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has issued a stern appeal to licensed firearm holders, urging them to refrain from the illegal and perilous practice of gun salutes to mark the arrival of the New Year.
Under Section 51(2) of the Firearms (Prohibition, Restriction, and Regulations) Act 2022, individuals engaging in gun salutes may face a fine of up to $3 million or imprisonment for a maximum of three years, emphasizing the seriousness of this offense.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Stephanie Lindsay, the Head of the JCF Corporate Communications Unit, emphasized that discharging a weapon within 40 yards of a gathering and a public thoroughfare is not only a criminal offense but also poses a significant threat to human life.
SSP Lindsay stressed the potentially fatal consequences of such actions, especially when combined with alcohol consumption and irresponsible behavior, cautioning individuals against risking their own lives and the lives of others. She emphasized that those considering this practice should not only ponder the possibility of arrest but also the potential of facing murder charges.
Furthermore, SSP Lindsay urged firearm holders to exercise responsible behavior in handling, storing, and using their weapons when attending social events or New Year’s Eve celebrations. She expressed concern over instances where firearm holders inappropriately store their weapons in vehicles at ‘weapons-free’ events, highlighting the risks associated with such actions.
SSP Lindsay advised firearm holders to refrain from leaving their firearms in vehicles, underlining the importance of proper storage and making prior arrangements with event promoters or security companies. She emphasized that leaving firearms at home in a safe is the safest and most responsible course of action.
Additionally, SSP Lindsay underscored the penalties for irresponsible firearm storage, cautioning against the potential criminal charges and the risk of being unable to obtain a firearm license in the future. She also advised licensed firearm holders to consider alternative secure storage options, such as police stations or the Firearm Licensing Authority (FLA).
Trelawny Police held a suspect with a Loaded gun.
A recent report by the Jamaica Gleaner has revealed that in Trelawny, law enforcement officers arrested an unnamed suspect in the Greenwood District on Thursday, December 28, 2023. The arrest followed the seizure of a .40 Smith and Wesson semi-automatic pistol equipped with a magazine containing three .40 cartridges.
The suspect remains in custody as the investigation continues.
According to the report, sourced by the Falmouth police, law enforcement officers conducted an operation in the Greenwood community around 8:55 p.m. on Thursday, December 28, 2023. They allegedly witnessed the suspect running into a shop upon their approach.
Following a chase and subsequent search, the officers discovered the firearm on the suspect’s person. Additionally, a search of the premises led to the discovery of a magazine and lottery scamming paraphernalia.
The suspect was promptly arrested and placed in custody as the investigation progressed.