No amnesty on illegal guns – Benn warns

Outlining the government’s stance on gun crimes during the ministry’s end-of-the-year 2023 press conference, Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn has pledged that there would be no amnesty for illegal gun owners.

Responding to a reporter’s question about potential legislation for stiffer penalties against gun crimes, he urged those in possession of illegal firearms to voluntarily surrender them to the nearest police station or dispose of them safely, emphasising the government’s strong opposition to illegal guns.

“We are not going to be doing any amnesty. Those who have guns and shouldn’t have them should perhaps walk into the nearest police station and give them up… You’re not supposed to have any illegal guns… If you have an illegal gun, pass by the police station, put it in a bag, and throw it in the yard, but don’t have it. We are thoroughly against it,” he affirmed.

Meanwhile, in response to a question about potential legislation for traffic offences, the minister acknowledged the need to increase penalties for road traffic fines. Statistics released by the ministry have shown that fatal accidents saw a dramatic increase in 2023, with a rise of 76.8% in fatalities compared to the previous year. Speeding was identified as the primary cause.

Fire safety in schools was another topic broached and Benn informed reporters that in light of what transpired last year at the Mahdia Secondary School girls’ dormitory, efforts have been made to enhance fire safety measures in hinterland schools.

Fire had erupted in the Mahdia dormitory in the early hours of May 21 last year, rapidly engulfing the building and claiming the lives of 18 girls and a young boy.

The safety measures listed by the Home Affairs Minister include the installation of exits, fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, and signage. Discussions are also underway to assess fire safety in Georgetown schools, with visits and reports being conducted to identify areas that need improvement, he added.

The minister also provided updates on various other matters. When questioned about the number of incarcerated Venezuelans in Guyana and the nature of their crimes, he revealed that there were 23 Venezuelan prisoners, some of whom were charged with carrying firearms illegally and others with disorderly conduct.

Late last year, Guyana saw an increase in migrants from Venezuela. Foreign Minister Hugh Todd had stated that 80% of Venezuelan migrants were either Guyanese or of Guyanese parentage and Benn reaffirmed Todd’s statement.