American tourist detained in Saint Lucia for illegally carrying weapons

A US national was detained by Saint Lucia police on Sunday after a firearm was discovered in his backpack. According to the reports, the tourist in 30s was visiting the island on a cruise ship which docked at Port Castries.

Officials said that the identity of the individuals has been kept private because of privacy concerns, but the police reports added that the American presented an expired license for the firearm upon questioning. In keeping up with the protocols, the police officials confiscated the weapon of the US national, following which he was escorted back to the cruise. The police also added that he had been to two ports before Saint Lucia and had the firearm in his sack. It is reported that upon the renewal of his license, the firearm will be returned to its owner. Tourism Minister Ernest Hilaire also responded to the situation and emphasised zero tolerance for individuals carrying firearms as it contradicts Saint Lucia's laws and regulations.

He also lauded the officials at Port Castries and said, "In a sense, it showed that the systems work because he had been to two previous spots, and it had not been discovered. But of course, it was discovered in Saint Lucia."

Minister Hilaire said that the government wants to make it very clear that there is zero tolerance towards individuals carrying illegal firearms to Saint Lucia.

"In the American's case, he had a permit for it, You know, but still then, what he did was not in accordance with our laws as the permit was expired," added the Minister.

While addressing all the travellers, the Minister said that carrying firearms into countries requires strict adherence to local laws and regulations and travelers must ensure that laws are followed to avoid facing legal consequences.