Two major bills aimed at curbing crime have been passed by the Lower House of Antigua and Barbuda, delivering a double blow to criminals in the Caribbean nation.
The Anti-Gang Bill 2024 and the Firearms Amendment Bill both received approval, introducing stricter penalties for gang-related activities and firearm offenses.
The Anti-Gang Bill 2024, passed after extensive deliberations and amendments, establishes a new legal framework to combat organized crime.
Under this legislation, forming a gang can result in up to 10 years imprisonment, while gang leadership carries a sentence of up to 15 years. The bill also imposes a 10-year sentence for falsely claiming gang membership to intimidate others or gain personal benefits.
One of the most controversial aspects of the Anti-Gang Bill is its provision to treat minors involved in gangs as adults in certain cases. The law also introduces particularly severe penalties for recruiting children into gangs, especially near schools and churches.
Simultaneously, the Firearms Amendment Bill successfully passed the committee stage and is set for debate in the Senate.
This legislation significantly increases penalties for firearm offenses, with all such crimes now potentially resulting in up to five years imprisonment, a substantial increase from the previous two-year maximum.
These new laws reflect the government’s determination to address rising crime rates and send a strong message to criminals and potential offenders.
Attorney General Steadroy Benjamin emphasized that these measures demonstrate the government’s serious commitment to tackling crime, particularly offenses involving firearms and gang activities.
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I hope that part that says warrantless search of property of SUSPECTING gang activity/members by the police isn’t still in there.
The police can just say “hey we SUSPECT gang activity in that house and get away with violating our rights
WHO WILL MOVE THE SERIANS COCAINE?
WHO WILL MOVE THE MEXICAN COCAINE?
WHO WILL MOVE THE CHINESE FENTANYL?
WHO WILL MOVE THE EXPATS GUNS?
WHO WILL MOVE THE SANTO DOMINGO RUM?
WHO WILL MOVE THE VINCY WEED?
WHO WILL MOVE THE LEBANESE GUNS?
WHO WILL MOVE GASTON’S BROWN PAPER BAGS?
Illegal firearm offenses should be no less than 20 years. Gang members always involve with illegal firearm so u have to send a very strong message.
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