Why business owners won’t be allowed to own guns
Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has acknowledged the argument being made for business owners to legally carry firearms amid rising gun violence in the Virgin Islands, but said such a move is not possible under the United Kingdom’s current position on gun ownership.
Speaking during a recent episode of the Virgin Islands Voice programme, Dr Wheatley said while he understands the fear and trauma caused by gun crimes across the territory, the issue of firearm access falls under the Governor’s portfolio, and by extension, the UK government.
“I think it’s a good debate,” the Premier said. “But persons should understand that the United Kingdom is responsible for internal security and they have a well-publicised position — they don’t encourage gun ownership outside of law enforcement agencies. Even the police generally don’t carry guns unless it’s the armed response unit.”
Dr Wheatley added that although there is a process through which persons can apply for firearm licenses in the BVI, it remains “very difficult” to obtain one because of the UK’s policy.
“There’s an argument and discussion that needs to be had about the level of gun ownership among businesses and private individuals,” he said. “But it’s unlikely that business owners will have access to weapons given that position.”
When asked whether firearm provisions could be included in the ongoing constitutional reform discussions, Dr Wheatley said such matters would not typically appear in the constitution itself, but rather under laws and policies once responsibility for security is devolved to the local government.
The debate comes amid a worrying surge in gun-related crimes across the Virgin Islands in recent months, including a string of daring daylight robberies targeting several businesses in Road Town and other communities.
The incidents have reignited public concern over safety and calls for stronger measures to protect business owners and residents.
While some residents argue that responsible firearm ownership could act as a deterrent, others have cautioned against introducing more weapons into the community, stressing the need for better policing, surveillance, and youth intervention programmes instead.
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UK controls internal and external security. Unlicensed gun ownership in the BVI is a crime.
Your comment does not address the real issue at hand, because it states the obvious. Everyone knows that UNLICENSED gun ownership is a crime.
They dont control anything because security is out of control and downhill year after year.
Wheatley again speaks out of both sides of his mouth and as is his wont, passing the buck. He apparently is unaware of Police Commissioner Vanterpool’s statements that SHE is the licensing authority:
“The Acting CoP said the Firearm Advisory Board undertakes the initial stages of the process, which involve the careful review of all applications. This includes interviewing and assessing applicants to determine if they meet the preliminary standard of being a “fit and proper” person.”
“The Board then provides its recommendations to me. However, my role as Licencing Authority carries additional and final responsibility. I must conduct my own assessment of each applicant’s character, which is primarily based on a thorough examination of criminal records and intelligence reports.”
You minding Natalie, he just laying that pipe to bring back that argument for self determination. Read between the lines, stay woke.
So what is the point of the Board if one person still has oversight?
You telling me one knows better than a few.
The whole UK population, here and there, and from top down, appears anti and against Ag. COP. Why is that-oo?
Have street lights in lonely dark streets it would help to ease the rate of
Too much dark streets