The sudden increase in bogus firearm training providers has meant that the police have had to implement stricter legislation before issuing a firearm license.
There have been ‘many incidents’ where fraudulent competency certificates have been issued. Now, the SAPS require that all training institutions be accredited with the Prescribed Fire Training Center (PFTC).
This is the body responsible for the control of firearm training provides in the community. The PFTC will now issue the statement of results of any competency tests.
“All those applying for a firearm competency certificate must make use of an institution that is accredited with the PFTC to receive a statement of results,” said the Dundee’s SAPS Firearm Officer Unit.
“No applications will be accepted if this requirement is not met. Applicants who have certificates issued before 2014 are required to be in possession of their SASSETA certificate. The Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA) has been set up to facilitate education and training specifically to the wide range of safety and security providers and services in South Africa.”
The statement also warned firearm competency holders to check on the expiry date of their card.
“If the competency card has expired, contact the Firearm Office at the Dundee SAPS, Room C5, or your nearest police station as these cards must be renewed. All previous correspondence in regards to this issue has now been superseded.”