The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force is intensifying its fight against illegal firearms with a two-pronged strategy that combines a final surrender amnesty with enhanced international cooperation.
Police Commissioner Verne Garde on Friday, December 12th, announced that January 2026 will feature a week-long opportunity for individuals to hand over illegal weapons before the force enforces a strict zero tolerance policy.
Commissioner Garde said the amnesty is intended to remove firearms from communities while minimising risk to the public and to those surrendering weapons.
“These weapons we will give a particular number that they can call and we will have some of our clandestine officers collect these weapons and ammunition,” Garde explained. “And in some cases we may provide little rewards for persons who pushed us in the right direction to get a few during that period.”
He stressed that once the amnesty period ends, the approach will change significantly, with law enforcement taking a far tougher stance on illegal possession and trafficking of firearms.
Alongside the amnesty, the police force is strengthening its operational capacity through expanded collaboration with French authorities. This partnership has already delivered advanced tactical training aimed at improving officer readiness in high risk situations.
French Ambassador Her Excellency Marie Noelle Duris highlighted the scope of the recent training exercise and the expertise shared with local officers.
“Twenty RSLPF personnel participated in the implementation of this police cooperation initiative in the field of professional intervention, practices, defense and arrest techniques,” Duris said. “I wanted to thank the two trainers, the divisional Commander of Police, David Chumacher, who is the head of the assault groups within the Red Unit, and Officer Sonnie Vigier for coming to Saint Lucia.”
The cooperation also includes the development of a specialized K 9 unit, which authorities say will enhance detection capabilities and improve responses to organized crime and firearm related offences.
Police officials say the combined strategy of a final amnesty and strengthened enforcement is designed to give communities one last chance to rid themselves of illegal weapons, while sending a clear message that gun violence and unlawful possession will no longer be tolerated.