The government of Antigua and Barbuda is appealing to citizens to take full advantage of a nationwide gun amnesty that begins April 7 and runs until the end of April, offering a final window for individuals to surrender illegal firearms without facing prosecution.
The initiative, approved by Cabinet, is part of ongoing efforts to curb gun violence and remove illegal weapons and ammunition from the streets.
Ambassador Lionel Hurst, Chief of Staff in the Prime Minister’s Office, emphasized the urgency of the initiative, noting that recent changes to the country’s firearms laws have already resulted in convictions.
“Several individuals have already been brought before the courts and sentenced to up to two years in prison under the country’s updated firearms laws,” Hurst said.
“This is yet another opportunity for people to hand over unlawful firearms. There’s now a mandatory jail sentence for those found in possession. So we urge individuals to do the right thing and turn them in,” he added.
During the amnesty period, individuals can surrender illegal guns and ammunition voluntarily, without fear of arrest or prosecution. In addition to the legal reprieve, the government is also offering rewards for credible information that leads to the successful recovery of illegal weapons.
Law enforcement authorities have confirmed that all police stations are equipped to handle the process safely and discreetly.
“All information shared with the police during this amnesty will be treated with strict confidentiality. Let us work together to keep our communities safe and free from the threats of illegal firearms,” the police said in a statement.
Hurst stressed the life-saving potential of the initiative.
“Even one gun handed in could save a life,” he said. “We hope this measure will be seen as a final chance for individuals to avoid jail. This is about making Antigua and Barbuda safer for everyone.”
