Illegal weapons such as “handguns, pistols, semi-automatic weapons, ammunition, flick knives and swords” can be handed in to police without penalty during an amnesty period that ends Thursday, according to a press release from the Police Information Office.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force is hoping that residents who are considering turning in their firearms or other illegal weapons will do so this week, the release states.
“We hope that more people will take advantage of this rare opportunity to rid their homes and properties of these lethal weapons and make a statement about the future of our territory as it relates to violence and gun-related crime,” acting Police Commissioner David Morris said.
The amnesty period originally was scheduled to end on Dec. 19, but “several pastors, along with other community leaders,” with the support of Governor Boyd McCleary and Premier Dr. Orlando Smith, requested an extension, the release states.
Since the weapons amnesty began on Nov. 19, a loaded unlicensed 0.38-calibre revolver and several rounds of ammunition have been turned in to the RVIPF, as has a loaded magazine clip with seven rounds of ammunition for a 0.45-calibre automatic handgun.
“I would strongly encourage mothers, fathers and other family members and friends to use this period to speak to those in possession of a firearm and persuade them to hand it in,” Mr. McCleary said.
Dr. Smith also supported the weapons amnesty.
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“Evidence shows that illegal firearms are likely to be used to carry out street robberies and to instil fear where necessary,” he said. “In possession of these weapons, an individual, even in a minor altercation, is likely to retaliate with dire consequences.”