Attorney General Sir Steadroy “Cutie” Benjamin says people who unlawfully carry firearms or ammunition in prescribed public places could face five to 10 years in prison under proposed amendments to Antigua and Barbuda’s firearms laws.

Speaking during debate on the Firearms (Amendment) Bill 2026, Benjamin said the tougher penalty would apply on summary conviction to people who are not police officers, Defence Force members or otherwise legally authorised to carry firearms in those areas.

Benjamin referenced a recent political rally near Parliament where gunshots were reportedly fired, causing people attending the event to scatter.

He said the government intends to take a firm approach to people carrying guns in public.

“We are not going to allow Antigua to become a gangster place,” Benjamin told Parliament.

The proposed penalty forms part of wider amendments aimed at increasing punishment for firearm offences, with some of the most serious offences carrying prison terms of up to 30 years.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Minimum Five Years in Prison Proposed for Openly Carrying Firearm in Public Place.