Illegal possession triggers probe of Barbados gun dealers

Commissioner of Police Darwin Dottin declined comment on the issue.

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, Monday February 13, 2012 – Shooting clubs and gun dealers in Barbados are at the centre of police investigations following the recent discovery of a number of unregistered high powered weapons.

Among the weapons discovered by police were a 9mm, .32  firearm, a number of M4 assault rifles used for single and automatic fire,

So far the Barbados Rifle Association (BRA) president, Michael Holder, club secretary Debbie Holder and committee member Richard Arthur, were charged with illegal possession of firearms and or ammunition, while another club member was being questioned.

The ongoing investigation, being led by the Anti-Gun Unit of the Royal Barbados Police Force (RBPF), has also resulted in the transfer of two police officers and the temporary closure of the RBPF firearms section.

Commissioner of Police Darwin Dottin declined comment on the issue. However, gun dealers, including the BRA, issued a statement stating they were against the illegal possession and use of firearms and ammunition.

Over 59 illegal guns were seized in Barbados last year, compared with 41 in 2010. Gun grimes were also up last year, with 107 cases being recorded, compared with 78 in 2010. Click here to receive free news bulletins via email from Caribbean360. (View sample)