Grenada’s Parliament has recently approved significant amendments to the nation’s firearms regulations, which will increase penalties for visitors who fail to declare firearms at customs.
This move is part of a broader effort to combat the illegal firearm trade and associated violent crimes.
Hefty fines and increased jail terms introduced
Under the revised 1968 Firearm Act, the fine for failing to declare a firearm has been raised to EC$50,000, marking an increase of 4900 percent from the previous EC$1,000 penalty.
Moreover, the potential jail time for those convicted under the new legislation has doubled from three to six months.
These stiffer penalties will be enforceable starting from August 1 of this year.
Government’s firm stance on firearm offenses
The amendment was introduced by the Leader of Government Business, Phillip Telesford, and strongly supported by Finance Minister Dennis Cornwall.
Cornwall emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing the illegal firearm trade, which has been linked to recent increases in violent crimes, particularly those affecting the nation’s youth.
He articulated a stern warning to both nationals and non-nationals involved in these activities, indicating that the government is prepared to extend prison capacities if necessary to accommodate offenders.
Zero tolerance policy
The Dickon Mitchell administration is adopting a zero-tolerance policy towards firearm-related offenses.
This policy aims not only to penalize violators but also to deter the illegal trade and misuse of firearms that have been contributing to the loss of lives in Grenada.
