Police warn against illegal New Year’s gun salutes

Police have issued a warning against the illegal practice of gun salutes during New Year celebrations.

This from, Public Relations Officer with the Royal St Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF), Superintendent of Police, Junior Simmons in a radio address on December 31, 2023.

“We remind you that gun salutes, especially to ring in the New Year, are not only dangerous but also illegal.”

Referencing the Firearms Act, SoP Simmons said,

“A person shall not discharge any firearm or ammunition on or within one hundred yards of any public road or in any public place except – (a) in the protection of his person or property or the person or property of some other person (c) with the permission of the Commissioner of Police.”

He urged all licensed firearm holders to adhere to safety and legal regulations, warning that any violation can lead to severe legal repercussions.

“Section 17(1) of the Firearms Act also authorizes police officers to enter premises without a warrant if there’s reasonable cause to believe a violation has occurred, seizing any related firearms or ammunition for investigation and legal proceedings.”

SoP Simmons also cautioned licensed firearm holders to be responsible at New Year’s Eve social events.

“Avoid leaving firearms in vehicles when attending ‘weapon-free’ events. Instead, make prior arrangements with event promoters or security companies to safeguard weapons, or better yet, leave them securely at home.”

He also noted that police officers can require any person carrying a firearm or ammunition in a public place to produce their license or permit. Failure to comply with such a request constitutes an offense, and the officer may seize the firearm or ammunition.

For those in possession of illegal firearms, the SoP said the Force will be strictly enforcing regulations against such.

“To this end members of the RSVGPF will be conducting strategic patrols to ensure that our citizens are safe as we transition into 2024.”

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