Jamaica proposes 20-year minimum sentence for illegal firearm possession

Jamaica’s National Security Council (NSC) has recommended significant amendments to the Firearms (Prohibition, Restriction and Regulation) Act, 2022, to combat organized crime and gun violence. A key proposal includes increasing the mandatory minimum prison sentence for illegal firearm possession from 15 to 20 years.

The recommendations specifically target the exploitation of minors by criminal networks. A new criminal offense is proposed for adults who recruit, groom, or enlist children to acquire, transport, store, or use illegal firearms. Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness stated the administration is “drawing a line in the sand against gun crime” to prevent criminals from putting weapons in the hands of children.

To support these legislative changes, the government plans to implement a gun amnesty and cash buy-back program. The Ministry of National Security and Peace has been directed to prepare draft legislation for consultation by the end of November 2026. The review will also address distinctions between imitation firearms and real weapons, as well as regulations regarding expired licenses.