The right to bear arms is [not] a constitutional right in Jamaica. Nevertheless, from the way guns are readily available and used on the tiny island nation of under three million people, one would think that gun rights are enshrined in the constitution.
As we have seen in other societies where guns are readily available, guns do not solve problem; they create problems.
There is absolutely no reason that the Jamaican Government should be in the business of allowing guns into the hands of Jamaicans, who are known for defaulting to violence as a conflict resolution remedy.
At this point, it is already water under the bridge, it is a situation that will remain because those with power demand these perks, and those without want them too. And that means even if they have to acquire them illicitly.
This was the scene in Sam Sharpe square Montego Bay on Tuesday between two dumbasses who, as you may have guessed, have licensed firearms, popping off shots in the crowded city center.
Most distressing of all, look at the law enforcement response to this dangerous and criminal act between two morons who should never have guns.
Having the possession and care of a firearm is a tremendous responsibility; even as a law enforcement officer, I felt a tremendous burden and a duty of care to be judicious and prudent with the weapon and under what circumstances that weapon may be discharged certainly as the last resort.
Civilians are allowed weapons, and clearly, they feel no duty of care or burden to be responsible. It is like the wild west, and the poor police officers, so berated and beaten down, have no idea how to respond. We are slowly losing our country day by day.
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Mike Beckles is a former Police Detective, businessman, freelance writer, black achiever honoree, and creator of the blog mikebeckles.com.