Alliance calls for stiffer penalties for possession of ammo

In the wake of the fatal shooting of Nyron Erickson over the weekend and a string of recent armed robberies, members of the three-member Alliance in the House of Assembly are calling for tougher gun laws in the British Virgin Islands.

In a statement issued to the media, the Alliance urged lawmakers to amend current legislation so that penalties for illegal possession of ammunition match those for illegal possession of firearms.

“While the possession of a firearm currently carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years’ imprisonment, possession of ammunition or explosives carries a far lesser penalty — a $500 fine or six months’ imprisonment,” the Alliance stated.

“This inconsistency cannot continue. It is not logical to assume that an individual in possession of ammunition or explosives has no access to a firearm. We therefore call for the penalty for possession of ammunition and explosives to be brought in line with firearm possession, including a mandatory minimum sentence of five years’ imprisonment,” the group added.

The Alliance, comprising Opposition Leader Myron Walwyn, Second District Representative Melvin ‘Mitch’ Turnbull, and Territorial At-Large Representative Stacy Mather, also renewed its call for the immediate development and implementation of a National Crime Reduction Strategy.

They said the strategy must be a coordinated, comprehensive plan led by the government and supported by key stakeholders.

“It must balance law enforcement with robust social support, economic opportunities, and sustainable, community-based interventions,” the Alliance stated.

The legislators further pledged to continue advocating for meaningful investments in youth outreach and development programmes, trauma support for survivors, proactive accountability measures to prevent violence before it occurs, and significant crime-fighting initiatives backed by appropriate resources.

In addition to legislative and policy changes, the Alliance urged the wider community to play an active role in addressing the violence.

“Your voice could be the key to preventing further harm. As a people who are blessed to call these islands home, let us stand united — not in fear, but in firm resolve. The fight against gun violence goes beyond legislation; it is about saving lives, restoring peace, and securing the future of the Virgin Islands for generations to come.

“Together, through trust, cooperation, and courage, we can help bring justice, healing, and lasting safety to our communities,” the political group said.