Firearm check - Security overhaul coming for parties

National Security Minister Dr Horace Chang says the Government is moving swiftly to prevent criminals from derailing the island's vibrant entertainment sector.

Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday, Chang struck a firm but upbeat tone, declaring that the Government is doubling down on efforts to keep events safe while preserving the island's party spirit.

"We have seen a little trend, and we are not going to allow criminals to disrupt our entertainment," he said.

The minister revealed that for major events, stricter measures are coming -- including a policy that will require licensed firearm holders to leave their weapons secured in armoured vehicles outside venues.

"It must be part of the cost for those big events," he said.

"The police will be there to ask because we working jointly with the citizens and the police and the other agencies to ensure there is peace," he added.

The minister concedes that the policy will not be the same for all events.

"The smaller ones, it is sometimes tricky. But it is the policy of the police not to stop the round robins and the wakes, etc."

FOCUS ON PUBLIC SAFETY IN ENTERTAINMENT ZONES

Chang's comments come amid heightened focus on public safety in entertainment zones, especially following a shooting incident at Big Wall, an after-carnival party held at Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre in St Andrew two weeks ago.

Two men, music producer Jahvel 'Jhavy Ambassador' Morrison and podcaster Jaii Frais have been slapped with firearm-related charges which carry a minimum of 15 years' imprisonment if convicted.

Jaii Frais, whose given name is Jhaedee Richards, was shot during the chaos, along with 39-year-old Jeremy Watson and 36-year-old Trevor Twaite.

According to the Jamaica Constabulary Force, about 9:30 p.m. a physical altercation developed between patrons at the event. It is further reported that the fracas escalated, and gunshots were traded between the two patrons.

Jaii Frais, who has been charged with wounding with intent, shooting with intent, and possession of a prohibited weapon, has reportedly claimed self defence.

Addressing Parliament, Chang stressed that the economic value of the sector is not lost on him, noting that parts of his own constituency continue to thrive as entertainment hubs. He pointed specifically to Flanker in St James North West, which he said is widely regarded as an entertainment capital within the parish of St James.

Chang also drew a comparison to Olympic Way, a lively entertainment strip in the constituency represented by Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness, describing both areas as places where people are "partying all the time".