Residents are reminded that the cut-off date for the amnesty period to surrender unlicensed and unwanted firearms is January 31. The public should contact their local Firearm Registration Centre, situated at police stations, for more information and the times the centre is open to accept firearms handed in.
“We remind the public that the new firearm amnesty period runs from August 1, 2020 to January 31,” explained Reiger Park SAPS acting spokesperson Sgt Phathela Mashudu.
“After that, those found in possession of illegal weapons will be arrested and prosecuted.
“You can either hand a firearm in for destruction or re-licensing, if it’s a firearm from an estate due to the owner dying or your licence has expired.
“There is not much time left for people to avoid prosecution.”
Mashudu stated the firearms amnesty period was approved by cabinet last year after the previous amnesty period was hindered, following the restriction of movement during lockdown levels four and five.
“We are hopeful that the community will use this amnesty opportunity to their benefit as failure to do so will lead to unfavourable consequences,” he said.
Police prioritise applications
Meanwhile, according to Boksburg North SAPS spokesperson Const Justice Ramaube, the Boksburg North SAPS Firearm Registration Centre (FRC) will this week prioritise the amnesty applications and firearm licence/competency renewals.
“This is to ensure the community of Boksburg North is afforded all the opportunity that is needed to make use of this firearm amnesty.
“To avoid long queues under Covid-19 conditions and strain on our members, do not wait until the last minute. Firearms and ammunition can be handed in on weekdays between 8am and 3.30pm.”
Officers commended for festive period
Additionally, the Reiger Park police management has commended the extra efforts made by its officers to curb crime during the festive season.
“Due to commitment by officers who, when needed, went the extra mile under all circumstances, our station, in partnership with various stakeholders, managed well to combat crime.
“There were no serious incidents of crime reported during the holiday period,” said the Reiger Park SAPS station commander, Lt Col Eugene Roets, in a statement.
Police management also noted the ban on the sale of alcohol played a big role in reducing violent crimes in the precinct, where alcohol is known to be the number one contributing factor to incidents of such crime.
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