The Firearm Licensing Authority (FLA) has revealed that Reggae artist Jah Cure is one of 200 people with criminal convictions or unfavourable results who were issued firearm licences between 2014 and 2017. The announcement was made at a news conference on Tuesday, by Firearm Licensing Authority CEO Shane Dalling.
Some of the applicants for gun permits had prior convictions for murder, firearms offenses, and drug trafficking.
Mr. Dalling also stated that one well known don was given four gun permits and a convict who returned to Jamaica after being extradited, tried and sentenced in the United States was also given four gun permits.
Dalling revealed the surprising revelation while accusing former board members of initially denying applications from people with significant criminal histories, then changing the decision.
According to Dalling, Jah Cure's application was first denied in June 2015 since he was convicted of rape and other offenses, however 10 weeks later the permit was signed and approved by earlier boards.
In April 1999, Jah Cure, born Siccature Alcock, was convicted for rape and illegal possession of a firearm.was sentenced to 15 years in prison for rape, however he only served eight years. He was released in July of 2007.
He said eventually, Jah Cure's gun license was revoked.
The CEO then discussed ongoing problems between the FLA and gun dealers, some of whom, according to Dalling, do not appreciate his insistence on certain checks and balances because they believe he is "bad for business."
Dalling remarked that he intended to keep working to rid the FLA of corruption.