Two people have handed over four firearms and 40 rounds of ammunition to the authorities, the police announced on Monday.
The surrender of the firearms and ammunition comes as the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) and the Ministry of National Security prepare to introduce a national amnesty for holders of illegal firearms and ammunition.
The firearms surrendered are one Glock 22-C pistol, one Glock 33 Pistol, one .38 Revolver and one 12 gauge shotgun
The ammunition was made up of 30 rounds of .9mm, seven rounds of .40mm, three round of .38mm and two magazines.
“The RSVGPF thanks the citizens who have chosen to surrender their illegal firearms, even before the amnesty commences. The RSVGPF encourages others who possess illegal firearms to hand them over immediately. You will not be prosecuted!’ the police said in a statement.
The statement reminded that the maximum penalty for possessing an illegal firearm and ammunition is seven years imprisonment or a fine of EC$20,000 or both in the magistrate’s court.
“Be further advised that this penalty may be increased by an Act of Parliament later in 2024,” the police statement said.
“Play your part in reducing crime and violence in St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG). Together, we can make SVG safer and more peaceful!”
The handing over of four guns during the amnesty period is a drop in the bucket when compared vwith the number of illegal guns in the nation. The murder rate is among the highest in the world. However, the persons at the highest echelon of the crime fighting agency is very inept and does not have the confidence of the public.
It is alleged that trusted officers who are in charge of crimes person disclose confidential information with their families. The ultimate effect of this tendency by trusted individuals incharge of crimes is the lost of confidence that the public has in these people. No wonder why only four guns were handled over during the amnesty period.
Did anyone find out the source of them? Hope you all did so preventative measures can be taken. It’s very scary.