The Minister of Police General Bheki Cele declared in December 2019 a firearm amnesty, a period of six months starting from 1 December 2019 and ending on 31 May 2020. An opportunity for South Africans to surrender illegal, unwanted firearms, ammunition and/or firearm parts.
This was done in efforts to decrease crime, save innocent lives and curb the proliferation of illegal firearms in the country.
A document released by the South African Police Service (SAPS) details that persons or institutions can apply for amnesty if they meet the criteria below:
- Persons in possession of a firearm without a legitimate licence, permit or
authorisation - In possession of a firearm part that slides, bolt or breech or block without a
licensed firearm capable of bearing that part - In possession of ammunition without a licensed firearm capable of
discharging the ammunition or without a collector’s permit - In possession of illegally imported firearms
- If you had inherited firearms but failed to obtain a licence, permit or authorisation
for such firearms - If you have been declared unfit to possess a firearm, but failed to surrender
their firearms and ammunition - Businesses, including private security businesses, with firearms and ammunition that
ceased to carry on business and failed to dispose of the firearms and ammunition - Your firearm licence, permit or the authorisation has been terminated in terms of the Firearm Control Act, 2000
- Institutions which wish to surrender unused and discarded firearms.
People who wish to voluntary surrender their legally possessed firearms and/ or ammunition may do so at any time before, during and after the amnesty.
Related article:
Police Ministry declares firearm amnesty: What you need to know
