The latest on firearms use
The staff of the Randfontein Firearm Registration Department chatted to the Herald about firearms – when they can be confiscated, and more.
When the Herald was informed about the good service the women at the Randfontein Fire Arm Registration department gave to residents, we decided to pop into the offices on 9 November and see for ourselves.
The Herald spoke to four of the five women, as one of them was busy with a hearing. All of them gave us very valuable information.
Warrant Officer Lindy Forbes, who has worked in the department for 15 years, said her duty is to take applications, help the public and also deal with section 102 of the Fire Arms Control Act 60 of 2000, which relates to persons found unfit to possess firearms.
The Act states that your firearm can be confiscated or a licence refused in cases of domestic violence, verbal abuse, threats indicating that a person will be killed, attempted suicide and reckless use of a firearm.
If you have a criminal record, you might not be able to get a firearm licence for some time, depending on the seriousness of the crime. Residents apply for fire arms licences mostly for sport, hunting and self-defence purposes.
When you are applying for a firearm licence for self-defence, you need to prove that the area you stay in is dangerous for your loved ones. You also have to make sure you have done everything possible to secure your family, for instance by installing security gates,” said Forbes.
Precious Mhatanga, who has worked in this department for eight years, does data-capturing and assists the public. She mentioned that before your firearm can be registered and a licence issued, you have to go on a training course.
Mhatanga also said, “Women are applying for firearm licences more often than in the past.” In some cases, the applicant will be asked to bring three people to testify that the person that is applying for a licence is not bad-tempered.
Warrant Officer Des Jansen van Rensburg has been with the department for 12 years. She scans the identity photos and deals with the public. She said that in 2016 they issued 1 176 licenses, and another 1 559 have been issued so far this year.
She went on to say, “The most popular firearms are Norincos, Glocks, CZ PO 9s and CZ PO 7s.
Babalwa Hans, who has been with the department for 11 years, is the senior administrative clerk, and often works with sections 102 and 103 of the Fire Arms Control Act.
The Herald was told that it is extremely important, if you are carrying a firearm, to keep it in a holster concealed under your clothing, and to keep it in a safe when at home.
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at randfonteinherald@caxton.co.za (please remember to include your contact details in the email) or phone us on 011 693 3671.
For free daily local news on the West Rand, also visit our sister newspaper websites
Remember to visit our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages to let your voice be heard!
