Having a gun illegally can draw life imprisonment

Government now has “some sharper teeth in the bite against crime involving illegal firearms and ammunition,” according to National Security Minister Martin Joseph. The Firearms Amendment Act which he said was now law, was the key tool to enforce serious penalties for breaches of the gun laws. In a broadcast to the nation last night, Joseph said, “our focus is on getting guns off the street.” As a result, he cited some of the changes introduced for dealing with those persons caught with illegal firearms: To be in possession of a firearm or ammunition with intent to endanger life, cause damage to property, the new penalty is life in prison. For having a prohibited weapon — a gun, firearm, including ammunition, the fine has been increased from $20,000 to $50,000 and ten years in jail. To sell or transfer a firearm to anyone who does not hold a users licence, the court fine is $50,000 or ten years jail. In addition to other increased penalties, the unsafe storage of firearms around children is now an offence that carries a penalty of $10,000.