As has become all too common in recent years, the holiday season, which is supposed to be a time of joy, thanksgiving, family and togetherness, was marred by an upturn in criminal violence.
Crime has remained at unacceptable levels for far too long, especially in the capital. Gun violence in particular seems to continue unchecked, despite the best efforts of the police force.Illegal firearms have taken hundreds of lives over successive administrations, despite promises from politicians that they have all the answers.
Upstanding citizens are, quite understandably, living in extreme fear for their safety and many feel helpless and at risk of a possible invasion of their home or business at any time. While armed criminals roam the streets, responsible citizens who happen to be firearm owners,continue to be discriminated against in The Bahamas.
Over the past three years, the annual license free for a legal firearm has skyrocket by 200%,without any warning or explanation. This has made the cost prohibitive for many avid hunters, as well as many regular citizens who want the peace of mind of knowing that they will be able to protect their home and family if the worst ever happens.
Meanwhile, we understand that there is currently a severe backlog of new gun license approvals,despite the applicants fulfilling all the requirements and having clean background checks.Literally hundreds of upstanding citizens have been waiting up to three years with no word from the Commissioner of Police.
I find this baffling, as properly licensed firearms have not been in any way responsible for thegun crime that has destroyed so many lives and families.
It is not right that innocent Bahamians are punished because of the actions of criminals. We mustdo away with this myth that guns are only for ‘hunting’. Responsible citizens have every right to defend themselves and should be allowed to apply for a firearm on the basis of home protection and receive a prompt response from the authorities.
Where gun safety education is needed, it should be provided, but free and upstanding members of this society cannot continue to have their rights trampled and be left defenseless and at the mercy of violent criminals.
I hereby call on the government to reverse the extortionate hike in gun licensing fees and fast-track the issuance of new licenses to upstanding citizens who have no criminal records. We right-thinking Bahamians applaud and appreciate the courageous work of the Royal Bahamas Police Force, but they cannot be everywhere at once. The country’s record of murders,armed robberies and home invasions are testament to this fact.
The time has come for The Bahamas to respect the right of citizens to defend themselves and their families.
Ben Albury
President
DNA Business Alliance
