The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has launched a crackdown on the growing number of social media posts showing young people openly displaying what appear to be firearms and ammunition.

Police said officers are actively reviewing photographs, videos and other material circulating online in an effort to identify those involved and recover any illegal weapons.

The Police Administration condemned the trend as “lawless and deviant behaviour,” warning that the public display and glorification of firearms will not be treated lightly.

Commissioner of Police Everton Jeffers said guns should never be portrayed as symbols of status, power or social acceptance.

“The unlawful possession and public display of firearms should never be viewed as a symbol of status, power, or acceptance,” Jeffers said. “This behaviour places lives at risk and contributes to a culture of violence that has no place in our society.”

He said the police would use every lawful measure available to identify the individuals involved, recover illegal firearms and bring offenders before the courts where sufficient evidence exists.

The force is also urging parents, guardians, educators and community leaders to openly condemn the behaviour and steer young people away from criminal activity and associations that could destroy their lives and harm their families and communities.

Members of the public are being encouraged to report photographs, videos, messages or other information that may reveal the possession, movement, concealment or use of illegal firearms.

Anyone with information may contact the Criminal Investigations Department at 462-3913 or 462-3914, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 800-TIPS (8477), or the nearest police station.