KINGSTON, Jamaica—The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) is warning that it will maintain a heightened and zero-tolerance approach towards irresponsible firearm use and illegal use of fireworks during the holiday season.

Speaking at a Jamaica Information Service (JIS) Think Tank on December 8, assistant commissioner of police assigned to the strategic operations portfolio and the Public Safety and Traffic Enforcement Branch, Dr Gary McKenzie, said the police have intensified their focus on curbing the practice.

“We commonly call it gun salute at Christmas time. When it comes on to New Year’s, people have a way, especially both persons with licensed firearms, as well as persons with illegal weapons, they tend to do that. We have stepped up our vigilance,” ACP McKenzie said.

“In fact, we are happy to say that last year, there was some improvement based on all the reports that we got. But this year will be no different in terms of our vigilance around the issue,” he added.

ACP McKenzie emphasised that firearm use must always be responsible and warned that gun salutes can have deadly consequences.

“It is very important that persons realise and recognise that the use of firearms must be responsible, so gun salute is a no-no. So once that happens, we expect people to report it,” he said.

He cited a tragic example of the dangers involved in gun salutes.

“We have had instances where people are making gun salutes and persons have been shot, as the clock struck 12…took out a firearm, fired it, a tree was over his head, and a man fell from the tree. These kinds of things do happen, and we have to guard against it,” ACP McKenzie stressed.

He also issued a strong warning regarding fireworks and firecrackers, noting that their unauthorised use will not be tolerated.

“Also, firecrackers are illegal, persons should not be selling them. Persons should not be buying them, and persons should not be using them. Where any of these things are seen by the police, they will act on it and persons will be prosecuted and taken to court,” ACP McKenzie warned.

The assistant commissioner of police also outlined the process for obtaining permission to use fireworks legally.

“In terms of permit, the finality of it rests with the Minister of National Security, but that is applied through the commissioner of police. When that is done, there is an investigation as to why, how, where it will be used and whether or not it is necessary. If all things are satisfied, it may be approved,” ACP McKenzie explained.

He further highlighted the impact of loud explosions on vulnerable members of society.

“We need to recognise that when we do this in communities, whilst we are trying to satisfy ourselves in terms of pleasure, there are young babies within the communities, there are elderly persons, persons who are ill, and some of the firecrackers, when they burst, it actually sounds like gunshot and it causes persons to feel fearful,” he said.

The JCF also urged members of the public to act responsibly during the festive season and to report any incidents involving gun salutes or illegal fireworks to the police.

-JIS