Second firearm amnesty period in effect

The amnesty period would run for a period of six months, starting on 1 August until 31 January 2021, according to national police spokesperson Colonel Brenda Muridili.

“The previous amnesty period, which was also intended for a period of six months (between December 2019 and May 2020), was thwarted by the unexpected Covid-19 pandemic,” said Muridili.

She said that despite the pandemic, police had received 46 714 firearms.

“We, however, believe that there are lots of firearms still out there that need to be surrendered. We are confident the response to the previous amnesty would have been even more resounding if it were not for the pandemic.

“The level 4 and 5 lockdown levels somewhat prevented people from turning in illegal as well as their unlicensed and unwanted firearms and ammunition.”

Muridili said that the restrictions of levels 5 and 4 prompted police minister Bheki Cele to approach parliament to approve a new application of a six-month amnesty period.

She said the approval of the new application had since been published in the Government Gazette on 31 July 2020 allowing persons with illegal or unwanted firearms as well as ammunition to hand them in at their nearest police station.

“We are urging people to take advantage of this period, either to hand in those firearms and ammunition either for destruction or renewal of a competency certificate and a valid licence.”

She said the latest national crime statistics showed that firearms were the preferred weapon in the commission of most violent crimes.

“Reducing the circulation of firearms may potentially reduce the scourge of violent crimes quite significantly.”

She said the amnesty hoped to see a reduced number of illegal firearms in circulation in the country.

“It, therefore, provides firearm owners with the opportunity to hand in illegal and unwanted firearms which will result in the prevention of crime and promotion of safety to ensure people living in South Africa are and feel safe,” said Muridili.

She said it should be noted that no indemnity would be granted for firearms used to commit any crimes.

“All firearms that have been handed in will undergo ballistic testing to ensure that they have not been used in the commission of any crimes, before they can be considered for destruction.”

She said for amnesty enquiries, the public could contact the Flash call centre at 012-353-6111 or email on cfrenquiry@saps.gov.za.

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