T&T gets machine to mark firearms; 300 weapons to be marked every month

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar on Thursday received on behalf of the government of Trinidad & Tobago a laser machine designed to mark firearms as part of the fight against the use of illegal weapons.

The machine is a gift from the Organisation of American States (OAS) and the U.S. government.

On July 27, 2011 the Government entered into “A Cooperation Agreement for the Execution of a Project entitled “Promoting Firearms Marking in Latin America and the Caribbean.”

The agreement facilitates the marking of firearms with a dot-peen pin marking machine and improved exchange of information and experiences among OAS member States.

A dot peen laser marking machine used for creating ID etchings on firearms

 "These are two essential tools in combating illicit firearms trafficking," Persad-Bissessar said. 

"By signing this Agreement, the OAS committed to provide this marking machine to the Government of Trinidad and Tobago, specifically the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service. 

"The Police Service will have full responsibility, inter alia, for the use, care and maintenance of the machine. Members of the Police Service will also be trained to operate the laser machine.

"Once the training has been completed, and in accordance with the terms of the Agreement, the Police Service will begin using this machine to mark firearms." 

The Prime Minister noted that the laser marking machine will increase the efficiency with which the Police Armoury currently conducts its routine marking. 

She said the agreement commits the Police Service to marking an average of 300 firearms per month in the first 12 months following receipt of the machine and the accessories.

She said she looks forward to continued collaboration and cooperation "as we work towards a safer and more secure nation and hemisphere."