"Reforming the System: Home Affairs Minister Tackles Corrupt Gun License Practices"

By: Omar Silva, NP Staff Writer

Belize City: Thursday 20th July 2023

Based on the provided information, it appears that there have been long-standing allegations of corruption within the Police department related to the issuance of gun licenses. It is alleged that top officials within the department have been involved in a corrupt scheme, accepting premium payments of up to $3000 for issuing gun licenses. Furthermore, there are suspicions that gun dealers are selling firearms, even to individuals with criminal records, and then guaranteeing them gun licenses for an additional payment.

To address these issues and combat corruption, the government is taking action by establishing a Firearm and Ammunition Control Board. The board will be responsible for reviewing gun license applications and determining whether they should be issued. The board will consist of three individuals: a Magistrate on a rotational basis, a police officer who heads the dangerous goods department within the police department, and the CEO of the Ministry of Home Affairs (currently Mr. Arthurs).

The purpose of this board is to introduce a system of checks and balances in the process of granting gun licenses. The head of the dangerous goods department will be responsible for liaising with the special branch to ensure that proper vetting is conducted to avoid fraudulent practices. Additionally, the government is planning to require individuals applying for gun licenses to pass a certification course in the use of firearms, which was previously lacking in the legislation.

The Minister of Home Affairs believes that the board will offer greater oversight compared to having a single individual decide on gun licenses. While the Commissioner of Police thinks that police officers would still be strict in granting gun licenses, the establishment of the board is seen as a step towards reducing the risk of corruption and human error in the process.

Overall, the aim is to reform the current system and introduce more transparency and accountability to ensure that gun licenses are granted only to eligible individuals with proper vetting and training.