Maroon Chief Defends Use of Modern Weapons

Maroon Chief, Richard Currie says the Government of the Cockpit Country will not seek permission from the Jamaican Government to use modern weapons as part of their security apparatus. Chief of the Accompong Maroons, Currie, says he does not need the permission of the Jamaican Government to determine his choice of weapons to protect his people.

In a near 6 minute video posted to his Instagram page Chief Currie says it is part of the Maroon culture to bear arms to secure the people from tyranny and oppression. His comments come after a confrontation between members of the maroon community and members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force, (JCF). The chief was captured on video with what appeared to be a shotgun across his back.

The Firearm Licensing Authority confirmed that the Maroon Chief is a licensed firearm holder; the type of weapon was however not specified. It is understood that discussions are being had about whether an investigation should be launched into the matter.

While the Maroon Chief maintains that they are a sovereign state, Attorney-at-Law, Queen’s Counsel Peter Champagnie, says though the Maroons have their own leader and laws, all citizens of Jamaica are required to abide by the supreme law of the land.

More in this CVM Live story from Christeen Forbes: