(1) The appropriate authority may suspend with immediate effect any licence if in his or her opinion it is in the public interest to do so or pending the outcome of any proceedings against a holder—
(a) under the provisions of this Act;
(b) under the provisions of any other law in force in Saint Lucia where the holder is charged with an offence in which he or she uses a firearm or ammunition in the course or furtherance of the commission of the offence.
(2) Where the appropriate authority has suspended a licence under subsection (1), the appropriate authority shall notify the holder in writing of the suspension and the holder of the licence shall deliver his or her licence together with the firearm or ammunition to which such licence relates, to the appropriate authority within 7 days of the delivery of the notice.
(3) A person who without lawful excuse (proof of which shall lie on him or her), fails to comply with a notice under subsection (2), commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine of not less than $5,000 or to imprisonment for a term of not less than one year or both.
(4) Despite the outcome of proceedings against a holder under the provisions of this Act, the appropriate authority may if he or she has reasonable cause to do so, revoke a licence which is suspended and the provisions of subsections (2) and (3) shall apply with any modifications necessary.