An alleged soldier was relieved of his licensed firearm after he was seen physically assaulting a motorist in the middle of the street. The weapon was seized by the Firearm Licensing Authority (FLA), which acted swiftly after video of the heated road rage incident on Constant Spring Road in St Andrew went viral.
The clip, which appears to have been filmed by a passenger in another vehicle, shows a man brandishing a firearm and physically attacking another motorist. After the footage was shared online, it quickly began circulating on social media. It was later reported that the incident reportedly occurred on Monday, and the individual is believed to be a member of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) who is now under investigation.
In a statement, the FLA confirmed the confiscation of the firearm. Based on the report, a formal investigation has been launched to determine whether the weapon was used in breach of its regulations. The FLA reiterated that any licensed firearm holder found guilty of misconduct faces immediate revocation of their permit.
Firearm ownership is a privilege governed by strict rules. Holders are expected to act responsibly and with restraint, especially in tense situations. However, the road rage incident escalated over a collision that was reportedly caused by a motorist who fled the scene rather than stopping.
The motorist, according to reports, was operating a Toyota Probox, and the alleged soldier was driving a grey SUV. The Probox reportedly struck the SUV, and when the driver failed to stop, a chase unfolded. The pursuit reportedly began on Constant Spring Road and extended into the St Andrew North police division, ending with the confrontation on Eastwood Park Road.
Acting Superintendent Mark Harris, who leads the St Andrew Central Police Division, confirmed that an official report has been filed. Law enforcement officials have since requested that the man report to them to assist with the ongoing investigation.