(Jamaica Observer) Government has sought the help of an international expert to develop a national policy to stem the flow of small arms into the island — the prevalence of which has been blamed for the country’s year-to-year high murder rate.
The consultant, a woman whose identity has not been disclosed, began her six-month contract on June 9 and will also look at legislation on explosives and all firearms.
National Security Minister Dwight Nelson made the disclosure on Tuesday during a joint press conference with United States Army General Douglas Fraser at his ministry in New Kingston.
“We have engaged the services of an international consultant with wide and vast experience in the area of small arms policy, who will develop new approaches to the control of small arms whether legally or illegally,” Nelson said. “[They will also] look at amending our laws, address anything relating to armament, explosives, etc.”
