Klao Bell, Staff ReporterThe number of deaths caused by licensed firearm holders have been increasing over the last four years.
Although this could easily be blamed on the rise in crime and the increase in situations that call for self-defence, the police also say that there has been an increase in the number of firearm licences issued during the period.
Since the start of the year there have been 22 fatal shootings by licensed firearm holders. In 2000 there were 20, in 1999 there were 10 and in 1998, there were three.
"It's obvious that the crime rate has increased, but I am positive that there has also been an increase in licences issued," said Noel Amos, Deputy Super-intendent in charge of the St. Andrew-South police division.
Superintendents at several police stations refused to disclose the number of licences issued.
DSP Amos implied that it was surprising that more persons have not been shot by licensed firearm holders.
"Many of them hand over the guns, instead of shooting the criminals who attack them," DSP Amos said.
In November, Commissioner of Police Francis Forbes said 80 licensed firearms were reported stolen.
There are indications that instead of defending their lives and property, many licensed firearm holders fall easy prey to criminals because they are not proficient in the use of their weapons.
"I get my license and apply for membership at the gun club (Jamaica Rifle Association) over a year now I don't hear from them. I have nowhere to practise, how am I supposed to improve my shooting, is the other day my friend was showing me some things and I realise that I was even holding the gun wrong," said a 28-year-old businessman.
JRA president, Rory Chin, said there is a long waiting list and a stringent process of selection of members.
