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By Kisean Joseph
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The Medicinal Cannabis Authority (MCA) has sought to reassure the public that licensed medicinal cannabis dispensaries remain secure following the double killing at an authorised Rastafari sacramental community in Creek Side.
MCA Chief Executive Officer Regis Burton said the attack was particularly distressing because it took place inside the community’s private compound.
“We do know that it is within the community and I think that’s why it’s such a tragic and saddening incident to see that people went within their space and within their private compound to do such a thing,” Burton said in an interview with Observer Media.
He extended the MCA’s condolences to the bereaved family and to the Rastafari community, noting that the authority had developed a close relationship with the community and has witnessed its growth over time.
Burton described the MCA’s role as a bridge between the sacramental community and the Government. He noted that Rastafari representatives sit on the MCA board and help to shape the development of the wider industry, and of the sacramental sector.
Addressing concerns about safety, Burton said medicinal dispensaries operate under stricter controls than sacramental spaces open to the public. Access is restricted to registered patients, who must present a patient card and undergo identity checks at the medicinal dispensaries.
“It’s less likely for an incident like this to happen at a medicinal dispensary in comparison to a sacramental community, a church, where a church is more acceptable to everyone,” he said.
Burton explained that every licensed premises must meet minimum security requirements, including camera systems, secure product storage and trained staff. Operators may introduce additional measures at their discretion.
He acknowledged that a successful cannabis industry can attract criminal elements. However, he noted that operators must remain vigilant and manage their risk in this legal industry.
Following the incident, the MCA contacted its licensees and the community to review existing security arrangements and implement more advanced, confidential measures immediately, Burton said.
However, he conceded that no regulator could guarantee complete protection against attacks.
“We can’t say that, notwithstanding our increased security protocols, that someone can’t attempt to break into an establishment,” Burton said.
Burton maintained that the regulated cannabis industry offers consumers greater safety than the illicit market, where purchasing cannabis on the street carries additional physical and health risks.
He urged the public not to speculate about the motive or circumstances surrounding the killings and encouraged anyone with information to contact the police to help bring the investigation to a conclusion.
He extended the authority’s condolences to the Rastafari community at home, across the Caribbean and around the world.