What you need to know about firearm amnesty
The objectives of amnesty are to reduce a large pool of illegal or unwanted firearms, ammunition and firearm parts that are in circulation in the country.
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THE firearm amnesty creates an opportunity for members of the public to surrender illegal possessed or unwanted firearms, ammunition and firearm parts to SAPS without fear of being prosecuted for the unlawful possession thereof. The objectives of amnesty are to reduce a large pool of illegal or unwanted firearms, ammunition and firearm parts that are in circulation in the country.
A person who surrenders his or her firearm during the period of amnesty will be required to complete and sign the necessary forms at the nearest police station and must insist on a copy of an amnesty form. Only the person who physically surrenders the firearm to the designated amnesty official personally apply for a licence in respect of such.
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The application for the firearm licence must be submitted to the relevant designated amnesty official responsible for the area wherein the applicant ordinarily resides and must comply with the following:
*A certified copy of the applicant’s competency certificate (if already issued).
* In the case where the applicant does not possess a competency certificate, she or he must apply for a competency certificate in accordance with the provisions of the act.
* Complete form 271 on which the applicant has indicated her or his intention to apply for the specific firearm licence.
* Provide a comprehensive motivation to support the need for the firearm licence (preferably in the form of a statement under oath or affirmation).
* Provide a certified copy of the legal firearm licence, permit or authorisation applicable to the specific firearm (if applicable).
For more information contact your local police station or central firearms register call centre at 012-353-6111.
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