The Government of Grenada has announced the commencement of a firearms amnesty program, effective from May 1, 2024, until 12 am on July 30, 2024. This initiative aims to provide relief to individuals who meet the conditions outlined in section 4 of the Firearms Order (published on April 29, 2024) by granting them amnesty under section 51A of the Act.
The primary objective of the firearms amnesty is to reduce the likelihood of violent crimes and firearms-related incidents by diminishing the circulation of illegally possessed firearms and ammunition within the State of Grenada. Recognizing the importance of such measures in achieving public safety goals, the government believes that implementing a firearms amnesty is a crucial step forward.
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Under the Firearms Amnesty Act, individuals are afforded the opportunity to surrender firearms, firearms-related items, and ammunition without facing prosecution. Throughout the designated period, individuals can anonymously turn in these items at designated drop-off locations without fear of repercussions.
The conditions of the amnesty are as follows:
- Firearms or ammunition must be surrendered during the specified period: (a) At any police station, to the officer in charge or the officer on duty; or (b) At the office of the Royal Grenada Police Force Headquarters, to an officer designated by the Commissioner of Police for that purpose.
- Individuals are not required to disclose their identity or provide any information when surrendering firearms or ammunition. Additionally, no details of the person surrendering the items will be recorded.
- An attorney-at-law may surrender firearms or ammunition on behalf of an individual seeking amnesty in accordance with the Act.
The government emphasizes that the Firearms Amnesty Act offers a safe and confidential mechanism for individuals to relinquish firearms, aiming to mitigate the risk of firearm-related crimes and tragic incidents of violence in communities across Grenada.
Prime Minister and Minister for National Security Dickon Mitchell underscored the importance of the initiative, stating, “We believe that every firearm surrendered through this amnesty program represents a potential life saved and one less gun on the street. Our priority is the safety and well-being of our citizens, and this initiative is a proactive step towards achieving that goal.”
The firearms amnesty is part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at addressing gun violence and enhancing community safety in Grenada.
