Cash For Guns programme starts strong
It has not been scientifically proven that the purchasing of illegal guns off the street will result in the reduction of violent crime, but authorities believe that it’s worth a try. Today the ambitious two-week project, combined with a daytime amnesty, got underway in Belize City. Judging by the quantity and particularly the quality of the firearms, citizens should sleep at least a little bit more soundly tonight.
Jacqueline Woods, Reporting
The first weapons collected in the Cash For Guns programme were promptly dismantled after being handed in at the receiving centre. When we checked in at around 2:00 this afternoon, day one of the effort was proving fruitful.
Darrel Carter, Vice Chairman, Cash For Guns
“Very good. We started 6:00 this morning and as anticipated, after the activity heat up after 8:00, we have so far brought in over a dozen guns. Serious guns, thirty-eight’s, forty-five’s, twenty-two’s, twenty-five’s and even thirty-thirty, with some bullets along with it. very good, very good.”
Jacqueline Woods
“What about the financial donations?”
Darrel Carter
“The financial donation is on par, and we are stepping it up today to maximize to get more. We believe with the help of the media and others spreading the news that this thing is actually working and that we will be able to get more.”
Carter says those persons wishing to hand in their illegal weapons are reminded that there are no police involved and they should have no reason to fear.
Darrel Carter
“It is as easy as ABC. You just walk in and walk out back with cash for your guns. There are no strings attached that’s it.”
The receiving centre is located at the New Carter’s Upholstery factory at the corner of Cemetery Road and Elston Kerr street. The centre will now be open from 8:00 a.m. till 6:00 in the evenings, while the amnesty remains in effect from 6:00 a.m. till 6:00 p.m.
The business community is being encouraged to support the programme. If you would like to make a financial contribution, contact the Belize Chamber of Commerce Accounts section at telephone number 73148.
