In the wake of the tragic shooting death of 24-year-old Juwan Warner in Georgetown, Portsmouth, Minister for National Security Rayburn Blackmoore has issued a fervent call for intensified law enforcement efforts to combat illegal firearms and gun violence. Warner was fatally shot on his porch on September 26, prompting Blackmoore to emphasize the need for a unified and robust response.
Blackmoore stressed that community engagement must be amplified, and law enforcement must adopt a more concentrated approach to apprehend those involved in gun-related crimes. He warned against complacency, stating that simplistic views of the issue, such as attributing it to isolated retaliatory acts, only exacerbate the problem.
The Minister underscored the importance of respecting citizens’ rights while urging the police to act decisively against perpetrators and their accomplices. He also highlighted the shared responsibility of the criminal justice system and the public in addressing gun violence. Blackmoore pointed to recent cases where suspects were arrested but later released on bail or by court decisions, emphasizing the need for serious treatment of such matters at all levels of the justice system.
To bolster these efforts, Blackmoore announced that additional magistrates would be appointed in October to expedite court proceedings, marking the highest number of magistrates in the country’s history. He also revealed that three Supreme Court judges are currently operating independently, ensuring the judiciary’s capacity to handle cases effectively.
Blackmoore extended his condolences to the families affected by senseless killings but issued a stern warning against the cultivation of gangs. He pledged his unwavering commitment as Minister for National Security to create an environment where law-abiding citizens can live without fear.
The Minister called for public cooperation and support for law enforcement, emphasizing that collective action is essential to rid the streets of illegal firearms and restore peace.