Browne Wants Tougher Penalties for People Supplying Illegal Guns
Speaking during debate on the Firearms (Amendment) Bill, the Prime Minister urged tougher scrutiny of those who bring guns and ammunition into Antigua and Barbuda for unlawful distribution.
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has called for closer scrutiny of the people who import, sell or transfer firearms and ammunition that reach criminals.
Browne made the remarks in the House of Representatives during debate on the Firearms (Amendment) Bill, saying enforcement should extend beyond those caught carrying guns to those supplying them.
He suggested that members examine the proposed penalties for importation at the bill’s committee stage. Browne said he wanted stronger consequences for anyone found bringing guns or ammunition into Antigua and Barbuda for unlawful distribution.
The Prime Minister also referred to information suggesting that people with business interests could be involved in firearm imports. He presented that as a matter requiring intelligence and investigation, rather than identifying anyone as having committed an offence.
Browne said the government would use the available law enforcement tools to disrupt the trade. He also urged members of the public to share information that could help police trace the source of illegal weapons.
This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2026/09/28/browne-wants-tougher-penalties-for-people-supplying-illegal-guns. © 2026 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.
About the author
Shermain Bique-Charles is an accomplished journalist with over 24 years of dynamic experience in the industry. Renowned for her exceptional storytelling and investigative skills, she has garnered numerous awards that highlight her commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence. Her work not only informs but also inspires, making her a respected voice in the field.
Read our editorial standards and corrections policy. Spotted an error? Contact the newsroom.
More from Antigua and Barbuda
View section
Chase Supermarket to Host Two-Day Job Fair for Full-Time Positions
Applicants are invited to explore vacancies across several departments on October 31 and November 1 at the supermarket’s Herbert’s location.
By Editorial Staff
Dwayne George Demands Accountability in Management of New Arts Centre
The Creative Industries Minister says responsible spending, maintenance and professional management must protect the national investment.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Maria Browne: Culture Deserves Infrastructure and Creatives Deserve Opportunity
The Housing and Works Minister says the new performing arts centre places artistic ambition firmly within national development.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Turner Reveals Team Feared Arts Centre Could Not Be Completed in Time
The minister credits National Housing workers with overcoming setbacks and an imposing workload to deliver the cultural landmark.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Comments (5)
Shanice Browne September 28, 2026, 3:43 PM
This is bigger than just making penalties tougher. We need proper checks at the borders, good intelligence, and people willing to give information when they know something. In a small place like Antigua, somebody usually knows something... let’s make sure the right people hear it.
ReplyCarlton “Carty” Joseph September 28, 2026, 3:43 PM
If guns are reaching criminals, we have to ask where they coming from in the first place. Catching the person with the gun is one thing, but tracing the supply chain is another. Cut off the source and you cut off the problem.
ReplyJuju Bee September 28, 2026, 4:04 PM
It is so easy to get an unlicensed firearm, and extremely difficult top get a legal one. The illegal ones seem to be a lot cheaper. And we all know about the business place on All Saints Road accused of selling firearms without a license
ReplyNotnice September 28, 2026, 5:29 PM
PM was on fire today. No sugar quoting. My only issue is that he throws people under the bus. Not
ReplyDonna September 29, 2026, 8:33 AM
Yes, the PM was under fire 🔥 over this new amendment bill on illegal firearms, and I agree with him 101%. It's time we pass tougher laws to address the situation. Too many of our young men are equipped with illegal firearms. If you check, these young men are drug heads and crack heads. The people bringing in these guns and selling them on the streets can't be ordinary men and women—they have to be people seen as high status in the country. Maybe some of the same people the PM often dines with. We need more undercover police 👮 on the streets—officers who have never worn a uniform. Even Rasta police 👮 officers and natural-braided-hair officers, like what I saw in New York (NY). Undercover police need to hang out and sit where those criminals are to understand the environment around them—according to Ezekiel 3:15. Undercover work allows officers to understand the root causes, operations, and key players behind criminals' activities to effectively dismantle them. In Ezekiel, he sat for seven days before he spoke or acted. This translates to surveillance, intelligence gathering, and building cover before executing an operation. Ezekiel could not understand the mindset, rebellion or the condition of the people by staying in his own comfortable space. Ezekiel had to go where the problem is. Traditional policing from the outside looking in would miss the internal dynamics of a criminal network, and true intelligence requires immersion. The government needs to make sure the police have the tools and equipment to do good policing.
Reply