Keep all firearms out of harm’s way

The recent increase in the number of firearm-related crimes such as armed robberies and hijackings is alarming.

Committee member of Buffalo Shooting Range in Newcastle, Keith van Aarde said illegal firearms and negligence led to these crimes.

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Owner of SF Shooting School in Newcastle, Susanna Fourie, said the only people who should use a firearm were those who underwent training at an accredited, reputable training institute.

“Firearm training is done so that a person can be declared competent by obtaining competency certification to comply with South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) Unit Standards. They must pass assessments, and meet the shooting criteria,” she said.

“Crimes with firearms occur when people are not trained correctly and when they have illegal firearms. Many people say firearms are dangerous, but the problem isn’t the gun, it is the person behind the trigger,” said Mrs Fourie.

Below is a guideline on the correct procedure to obtain a firearm legally in South Africa, adapted from www.westerncape.gov.za>service.

To qualify for a firearm licence, you must acquire a competency certificate.

Training must be completed at an accredited training provider. Once you have received training, you can apply for a firearm licence at the police station.

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To obtain a competency certificate, the applicant must meet the following requirements:

· Must be 21 years old, unless there are convincing reasons requiring the applicant to get a firearm before the stipulated age
· Must be a South African citizen or permanent residence permit holder
· Must pass a thorough background check
· Must be mentally stable and fit
· Must not be addicted to drugs and alcohol
· Must not have a criminal record
· Must know how to use a firearm by successfully completing a basic training course at an accredited training institution.

After obtaining a valid competency certificate, you can then apply for the firearm licence.

To apply for the licence, you will need:
· To submit an application form to the police station with the competency certificate
· Two colour photographs
· A certified copy of ID or passport or a certified copy of permanent residence permit
· A proper motivation indicating the reasons for the need of the firearm
· To pay prescribed fees.

For more information on how to get a firearm licence, you can contact the Police Department and speak to the DFO, where you will receive detailed instructions.

Report illegal firearms or the abuse of firearms to the police. Call SAPS Crime Stop on 08600 10111.