FLA Warns Against Gun Salutes during Festive Season

Danae Hyman, Online Reporter 

Despite the festivities almost over, the Firearm Licensing Authority (FLA) is reminding licensed firearm holders that they could lose their permits if they are caught participating in gun salutes during the festive season. 

In a release, the FLA pointed out that participation in gun salutes is an offence under the Firearms Act. Consequently, it said firearm licence holders should not participate in gun salutes on any occasion, whether at Christmas parties, New Year’s Eve parties, funerals or otherwise.

The warning from the FLA follows a similar one issued by the police earlier this week.

The firearm regulator is reminding all licence holders that a firearm is a deadly weapon and should only be used in the protection of life and property.

Further, it advised a licensed firearm holder should never discharge their weapon unless under imminent threat or outside of intending to protect one’s life and property.

The FLA said failure to adhere to this will result in the firearm being seized by the police, prosecution and immediate revocation of the firearm license in accordance with the law. 

It is also encouraging members of the public to provide the FLA with any information regarding concerns or breaches observed in relation to licensed firearm holders by calling or messaging the FLA’s 24-hour compliance hotline: 1-876-868-0349, email: compliance@fla.gov.jm, or reporting the matter to the nearest police station or calling 119.

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