KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Firearm Licensing Authority (FLA), says it is standing firm on the policy that no licensed firearm holders should be participating in any gun salutes this festive season.

The Authority in a release today reminded that participation in gun salutes is an offense under the Firearms Act. Firearm licence holders are not to participate in gun salutes on any occasion, whether it be Christmas parties, New Year’s Eve parties, funerals or otherwise, the FLA cautioned.

It said that a licensed firearm holder should never discharge their weapon unless under imminent threat or outside of intending to protect one’s life and property. According to the FLA, failure to adhere to this will result in the firearm being seized by the police, prosecution and immediate revocation of the firearm license in accordance with the law.

The FLA said it views licensed firearm holders as law abiding and responsible citizens, therefore “we implore them to act accordingly in the safe use and handling of their firearm at all times.”

The Authority also encouraged members of the public to provide any information regarding concerns or breaches observed in relation to licensed firearm holders by calling or messaging the FLA’s 24 hour compliance hotline 1-876-868-0349, emailing compliance@fla.gov.jm

, reporting the matter to the nearest police station or calling 119.