There are only two days left to take advantage of the South African Police Service (SAPS) 2026 Africa Firearm Amnesty Campaign, which gives members of the public an opportunity to voluntarily surrender firearms, ammunition and firearm components during September.

According to a memorandum dated August 13 and issued by SAPS Divisional Commissioner for Visible Policing and Operations Lieutenant General MJ Mamotheti, police stations across the country have been instructed to prepare for the receipt of surrendered firearms and ammunition.

The campaign forms part of the African Union’s Africa Amnesty Month under its “Silencing the Guns” initiative, which aims to reduce the circulation of illicit firearms and ammunition across the continent.

Public urged to surrender unwanted firearms

During the amnesty period, people can voluntarily surrender unlicensed, illegal, redundant or unwanted firearms, ammunition and firearm components.

Subject to the applicable legal requirements and conditions, those who surrender firearms may receive immunity from arrest, disclosure or prosecution for unlawful possession.

However, the amnesty does not provide ownership or licensing rights for firearms that are surrendered.

SAPS has instructed police stations to ensure the safe receipt, recording, storage and transportation of surrendered firearms and ammunition, while maintaining the required chain of custody and reporting procedures.

The campaign aims to remove illegally held firearms from communities and reduce the availability of weapons that can contribute to violent crime.

The public is advised to contact their local SAPS station before surrendering a firearm or ammunition to confirm the procedure and requirements.

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