The Government has outlined a set of new firearm control measures aimed at tightening oversight of licensed firearms and improving law enforcement’s ability to trace firearms used in criminal activity.
Central to the initiative is the introduction of mandatory ballistic testing for all licensed firearms in Dominica. The testing will allow police to create a ballistic profile for each weapon, enabling investigators to determine whether a legally owned firearm has been discharged in connection with a crime.
Authorities said the ballistic data will be stored as part of a strengthened national firearms database. This information will support faster forensic analysis and improve investigative outcomes involving firearms.
The government also confirmed that the police firearms registry will be expanded and modernised, consolidating ownership records, licensing information, renewal dates, and ballistic profiles into a single system. The enhanced registry is intended to close existing gaps in monitoring and improve accountability among licensed firearm holders.
Officials stressed that the measures are part of a broader effort to address gun violence, which remains a major concern despite declines in other categories of crime. Illegal firearms continue to account for a significant share of violent incidents, and authorities believe tighter control of licensed weapons will reduce the risk of diversion into criminal use.
Licensed firearm holders will be required to comply with updated procedures, including presenting weapons for ballistic testing and ensuring licences are kept current. The government indicated that lawful owners are not being targeted, but rather incorporated into a system designed to protect public safety.
The new framework is also expected to enhance regional cooperation, allowing Dominican authorities to share standardized firearm data with partner agencies across the Eastern Caribbean when necessary.
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