Prime Minister Gaston Browne is renewing calls for residents to confidentially report people in possession of illegal firearms, saying public information has already helped authorities remove guns from the streets.

Browne made the appeal during his weekly radio programme over the weekend while discussing the recent increase in crime and violence.

He said a long-standing programme provides cash incentives to people who supply information about illegal firearms and insisted that the identities of informants are protected.

According to Browne, information received through the initiative has contributed to the recovery of a number of weapons.

The Prime Minister said he believes many residents know of neighbours, friends or relatives who possess illegal guns but may be reluctant to report them.

He urged them to reconsider, arguing that providing information could prevent a shooting and could even save the life of the person carrying the weapon.

Browne said tips can be provided confidentially or anonymously, particularly where residents fear retaliation or exposure.

His appeal comes as the government prepares to convene a national security meeting on Monday to consider additional measures to address a recent spike in violent incidents.

The Prime Minister said tackling the problem will require what he described as an “all-of-society approach,” with police receiving stronger cooperation from communities.