By Zaya Williams

In Antigua and Barbuda, gun-related offenses remain a significant concern, particularly among the younger population.

The latest incident involves a 15-year-old and a 17-year-old who were allegedly discovered in possession of a modified flare gun and one round of ammunition on November 14 at the Clare Hall Secondary School Playing Field.

The two were charged with possession of the illegal items, and the older individual was charged with discharging the firearm in public on that day.

This occurrence adds to a series of firearm-related arrests made throughout the year, highlighting the persistent nature of the issue.

In a separate incident earlier this month, Jari Jackson, a 33-year-old resident of Gray’s Farm, found himself sentenced to prison for the illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition.

 Jackson faced charges of possessing a 9mm pistol and five matching rounds of ammunition. Upon pleading guilty to both charges, he was sentenced to five months at His Majesty’s Prison for firearm possession. Additionally, he received a fine of $3,000 for possessing ammunition.

These recent cases underscore the ongoing challenges the authorities face in curbing firearm-related offenses, especially within the youth demographic.

Efforts to address and prevent such incidents continue to be a priority for law enforcement.