Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness has reiterated the federal government’s plea for elevated help from the US in tackling the inflow of unlawful firearms into the island nation.
Talking at a safety seminar held on the AC Marriott Lodge in St. Andrew on February 7, Holness emphasised the essential want for collaboration to bolster current measures geared toward enhancing nationwide safety and combating crime.
Persistent efforts amidst ongoing challenges
Acknowledging persistent challenges in controlling the influx of unlawful weaponry, Holness highlighted the federal government’s efforts to safe factors of entry throughout Jamaica.
Regardless of vital investments in fortifying the capabilities of safety forces and implementing surveillance measures, casual entry factors stay troublesome to manage.
Holness underscored the significance of ramping up surveillance, together with investments in a state-of-the-art coastal radar system, to handle this subject successfully.
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Altering dynamics of unlawful arms trafficking
Holness identified a shift within the profile of weapons coming into Jamaica, noting an rising prevalence of AR15 and Glock platforms originating primarily from North America.
Whereas emphasizing Jamaica’s accountability in addressing its nationwide safety issues, he burdened the need of collaboration with worldwide companions, notably the US, in tackling this evolving risk.
Ongoing lobbying efforts
Holness revealed ongoing lobbying efforts directed on the US authorities, together with engagements with Vice President Kamala Harris and representatives of the Division of Justice.
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Regardless of the myriad challenges going through the US, Holness expressed gratitude for the receptive method of American counterparts in direction of Jamaica’s issues, emphasizing the crucial of continued help.
Shared accountability in combating unlawful trafficking
Michael Ben’Ary, Coordinator for the Caribbean Firearms Prosecutions and Affiliate Deputy Lawyer Basic at the US Division of Justice, affirmed the shared dedication to combatting unlawful firearms trafficking.
Recognizing the interconnected nature of the difficulty, Ben’Ary reiterated the US’ dedication to collaborating with Jamaican authorities in dismantling trafficking networks.
