Prime Minister Gaston Browne is calling for significantly harsher penalties for gun-related offences following the killing of two teenagers in Villa, arguing that lenient sentences are weakening efforts to curb violent crime.

“We’re doing all we can to even put away those who have guns or were involved in gun crimes,” Browne told state media, adding that the courts are “not working with us” and are handing down sentences that are too light.

Browne, who is also the parliamentary representative for the area, said individuals involved in gun crimes should face lengthy prison terms to serve as a deterrent.

“People involved in gun crimes should be put away for a long time… if you’re involved in a gun crime, you’re going to jail for at least 10 years,” he said.

He questioned why offenders are sometimes receiving sentences as low as 18 months or one year despite legislative efforts to increase penalties.

“How can you justifiably give people 18 months and one year?” Browne asked, suggesting that decisions at both trial and appellate levels are undermining public policy.

While acknowledging the independence of the judiciary, Browne said there is a “fundamental problem” when court rulings conflict with the government’s strategy to address gun violence.

He urged judges to apply the laws as intended and warned that continued leniency could have wider consequences for public safety across the region.

“You need to step up… stop allowing these situations where you are literally reducing sentences for gun crimes,” Browne said.

The Prime Minister’s remarks come as police continue investigations into the fatal shooting of 17-year-old Brianna Clark and her boyfriend, Omari Lewis, in Villa on Thursday.