In what’s being described as a significant development in the fight against illegal firearms, a 26-year-old man was sentenced to life imprisonment for the possession of a prohibited weapon.

Atlee Murray of March Pen Road, St Catherine was also sentenced to 9 years imprisonment for unauthorized possession of ammunition.

He will be able to seek parole after serving 15 years.

Reports are that on December 24, last year, officers were patrolling in the March Pen Road / Spanish Town area, when they spotted a group of men.

Noticing the officers, Murray reportedly made an attempt to flee the scene.

During the pursuit officers reportedly observed Murray removing a firearm from his waistband.

After apprehending him a Taurus 9 millimetre pistol was reportedly seized.

One magazine containing thirteen 9 millimetre cartridges was also recovered.

Murray was arrested and taken to the Spanish Town police station.

After undergoing an interview, Murray was charged and the case was escalated to the St. Catherine Parish Court.

The police said due to the severity of the crime, the matter was transferred to the Gun Court division of the Supreme Court.

Murray pled guilty to the charges, and on October 26, he was sentenced.

Meantime, Justice Minister, Delroy Chuck says Murray’s sentencing will send the appropriate signal to persons who seek to possess prohibited weapons.

He said Jamaica is serious about getting rid of illegal guns.

Minister Chuck’s sentiments were echoed by his Opposition counterpart, Donna Scott-Mottley.