The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force will roll out a seven-day gun amnesty programme next Monday, offering what it describes as a final opportunity for individuals to surrender illegal firearms and ammunition before enforcement is intensified.
Police officials say the amnesty is part of a broader push toward a “zero tolerance” approach to gun-related offences, and are urging anyone with illegal guns or bullets to take advantage of the amnesty offer.
Assistant Commissioner of Police, Luke Defreitas, said the amnesty will run from January 19 to January 23, and then resume from January 26 to January 28. During that period, firearms may be surrendered between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Individuals are required to contact the relevant police station ahead of time to notify officers of their intention to surrender a firearm.
Defreitas outlined strict safety protocols, stating that all firearms must be unloaded, with no ammunition in the chamber or magazines, and securely placed in a carrier. Persons surrendering weapons are also advised to travel directly to the police station without making any stops.
At the same time, police have stressed that the amnesty should not be mistaken for immunity. Defreitas made it clear that the programme is not providing a “get out of jail free” period, warning that anyone found in possession of illegal firearms or ammunition during police operations will still face arrest and prosecution.
In addition, surrendered firearms will be subject to forensic examination. Defreitas said weapons linked to previous crimes could still result in further police action.
“Any firearm surrendered will be subject to ballistic testing and should it be found that it is aligned in any way to the commission of any past offence, persons will be made to answer,” he said.
The Assistant Commissioner also underscored that the initiative is not a “cash for gun” programme.
“We will not be paying for the surrender of firearms,” he said, reiterating that the focus of the amnesty is public safety, not financial incentive.
I am somewhat dumbfounded. A gun amnesty that carries prosecution. Surely amnesty means amnesty. No one in their right mind is going to surrender a firearm and munitions so they can be prosecuted, let alone making an appointment for their arrest. Very counterproductive.
Chuupppzzzz…like seriously..let’s be serious please 🥺