South Africa
Gun Amnesty Road Show Aims to Mop Up Illegal South African Firearms
BuaNews (Tshwane)
9 March 2010
MORETELE, South Africa -- The North West Department of Public Safety has kicked off the 2010 Firearms Amnesty roadshow in the Moretele Local Municipality. Public Safety spokesperson Lesiba Kgwele said the campaign sought to amplify the call for residents to surrender illegal firearms and ammunition without being arrested before the April 11 deadline. The call came after Public Safety MEC Howard Yawa on Friday launched the... ( gunpolicy.org )
Ireland,United Kingdom
Report Details Last Acts of Gun Surrender, Destruction in Northern Ireland
Associated Press
3 March 2010
DUBLIN, Ireland - The governments of Ireland and Britain praised their disarmament commission Wednesday and published its final achievements in removing weapons from Northern Ireland's underground armies. Both governments in 1997 asked Canadian Gen. John de Chastelain to persuade a half-dozen militant factions to surrender their hidden arsenals. That mission finally ended last month with a flurry of weapons moves. Wednesday's... ( gunpolicy.org )
Uganda
Peaceful Disarmament 'Failed,' Uganda Army Goes for Karimojong Guns
New Vision (Kampala)
28 February 2010
KAMPALA, Uganda -- Karimojong warriors who do not voluntarily surrender their guns risk being court-martialled, the Government has warned. Information minister Kabakumba Masiko said about 70 warriors who refused to surrender their guns had been tried in the Court Martial. "The rustlers will be dealt with firmly and decisively and cattle rustling will be a thing of the past," she told a media briefing at the Kampala Media... ( gunpolicy.org )
South Africa
Thousands of Guns, Ammunition Surrendered in South African Amnesty
BuaNews (Tshwane)
26 February 2010
PRETORIA, South Africa -- Over 6 300 firearms and more than 90 000 rounds of ammunition have been surrendered to the South African Police Service to date. This is in line with the Ministerial Amnesty which expires on 11 April this year. Under the amnesty, anyone who has an illegal or unregistered gun, ammunition or firearm parts can hand them in without being prosecuted. The theme is "Together we can do more against crime.... ( gunpolicy.org )
Kenya
Pastoralists Fear Brutality, Torture as Kenyan Police Come for Their Guns
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
22 February 2010
NAIROBI -- Pastoral communities in northern Kenya are apprehensive over the disarmament expected to start any time now. A 70-day amnesty to surrender illegal arms by the pastoralists lapsed at the weekend, with 1,141 guns and 14,980 bullets having been handed over. The government has also repossessed more than 500 guns initially issued to home guards in the region. This will ensure no one will be having a government-issued... ( gunpolicy.org )
Uganda
Karamoja Elder Betrayed by Gun Amnesty, Uganda Army 'Cattle Rustlers'
Monitor (Kampala)
21 February 2010
He has dedicated his life to peace, worked closely with the UPDF to disarm his clansmen and once secured surrender of 200 illegal guns in a day. Today, Mzee Aramutori Lokodo is an angry elder, temporary confined by the government at a top Kampala Hotel, after soldiers allegedly grabbed all his 350 cattle last month. He spoke to Sunday Monitor's Tabu Butagira (through an interpreter) about how the army has become what he called a "cattle-rustling... ( gunpolicy.org )
South Africa
South Africans Urged Again to Give Up Illegal Guns in Years-long Amnesty
BuaNews (Tshwane)
10 February 2010
NELSPRUIT, South Africa -- Mpumalanga community safety MEC Sibongile Manana has urged the public to take advantage of the National Firearm Amnesty and hand in their unlicensed firearms. Illegal firearms can be handed in at the nearest police station, without the handler fearing arrest if the weapon was not used to commit a crime. The amnesty period runs from January 11 to April 11. A similar campaign in 2005 resulted in... ( gunpolicy.org )
Ireland,United Kingdom
IRA Factions Surrender Their Guns for Destruction in N Ireland Amnesty
Associated Press
8 February 2010
DUBLIN -- A ruthless IRA splinter group, the Irish National Liberation Army, declared Monday it had fully disarmed but offered no regrets for committing some of the worst atrocities of the Northern Ireland conflict. "We make no apology for our part in the conflict," said INLA spokesman Martin McMonagle, who spent seven years in prison for plotting to plant bombs in England and assassinate Northern Ireland's senior Protestant politicians.... ( gunpolicy.org )
Uganda
Ugandan Army Estimates 1,077 Illegal Guns Still in Hands of Karimojong
New Vision (Kampala)
8 February 2010
KAMPALA -- About 1,077 guns are still in the hands of the Karimojong, the UPDF 3rd division commander, Brig. Patrick Kankiriho, has said. He added that the army had collected 29,923â-guns in the last eight years of the disarmament exercise in Karamoja. "Very soon we shall declare Karamoja free from illegal guns. Then we can embark on integrated development and total pacification of the sub-region," Kankiriho said. ... ( gunpolicy.org )
Ireland,United Kingdom
'Elaborately Armed' IRA Splinter Group Surrenders Weapons in Amnesty
Associated Press
6 February 2010
DUBLIN, Ireland - The Irish National Liberation Army, a ruthless IRA splinter group responsible for some of Northern Ireland's most notorious killings, said Saturday it has surrendered its weapons just days before an Anglo-Irish disarmament deadline is due to expire. Two representatives of the outlawed organization told The Associated Press that the INLA handed over weapons stockpiles to Northern Ireland's disarmament commission... ( gunpolicy.org )
Netherlands
Dutch Police, 500 Nightclubs Trial 'Drop Vaults' for Illegal Guns, Drugs
Radio Netherlands Worldwide
5 February 2010
Five hundred nightclubs and cafés in the Netherlands will be fitted with vaults where visitors can drop off their illegal weapons and drugs anonymously. Police will keep the keys to the vaults and will regularly open them to confiscate the contents. The vaults are a project of Justice Minister Ernst Hirsch Ballinn who will officially install the first such receptacle in a bar in the town of Loosdrecht on Friday. Mr Hirsch Ballin... ( gunpolicy.org )
Argentina
Argentina Gun Buyback 'Wildly Successful,' 102,000 Firearms Destroyed
Inter Press Service News Agency
3 February 2010
BUENOS AIRES - As a disarmament campaign launched 17 months ago in Argentina nears its end, the government and civil society groups involved in the initiative announced that it has far exceeded even the most optimistic projections, despite the lack of publicity. The Interior Ministry reported that the programme, in which people voluntarily swap their firearms for cash, has so far collected over 102,000 guns and 721,000 munitions,... ( gunpolicy.org )
Cuba
Cuba Declares Gun Amnesty, Gives Owners 2 Months to Register Firearms
Associated Press
1 February 2010
HAVANA, Cuba - Cuba has declared a two-month amnesty for citizens to register unlicensed guns, and says those passing aptitude and psychological tests will be allowed to keep their weapons. The move is unusual in a state where almost no one except some active military personnel and plain-clothed state security agents are allowed to possess weapons. Even most police officers are required to leave their pistols at the station... ( gunpolicy.org )
Congo (DRC)
Firearm Buyback Creates Market, Organisers Drop Gun Price in DR Congo
Xinhua
29 January 2010
KINSHASA -- A "firearms for money" operation will be launched on Jan. 28 in the restive eastern parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) in the central African country's another bid to restore peace and stability, a source in charge has disclosed. Pastor Daniel Ngoy Mulunda Nyanga, the initiator of the operation, made the disclosure after a meeting with Governor of North Kivu province Julien Paluku in the provincial... ( gunpolicy.org )
United States
Bronx Destroys Thousands of Guns, Spends $1 Million in Gun Buybacks
New York Daily News
27 January 2010
Cash-strapped people packing guns walked into four Bronx churches last weekend - and were paid for it. Nearly 1,200 guns - handguns, semi-automatic weapons and sawed-off shotguns - were swapped for $200 each on Saturday as part of the latest joint NYPD/Bronx District Attorney's office gun buyback program. Citywide, law enforcement officials have taken 5,700 guns off the streets since 2008. "We'll never know, but... ( gunpolicy.org )
Kenya
In Sweep to Seize, Destroy Illegal Firearms, Kenya Police Kill Gun Owner
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
26 January 2010
NAIROBI -- A man was killed and 13 others arrested in a police operation to recover illegal firearms in Trans Mara District. District commissioner Albert Mwiritza said police shot the man who defied orders to surrender and instead fired his gun at the officers. He said an AK-47 rifle and 16 rounds of ammunition were found on the deceased. Among the 13 who were arrested was a taxi driver who was found with nine... ( gunpolicy.org )
Mozambique
Mozambique Churches Collected, Destroyed 700,000 Guns Since 1995
Agencia de Informacao de Mocambique (Maputo)
26 January 2010
MAPUTO -- Under its project "Transforming Guns into Hoes" (TAE), the Christian Council of Mozambique (CCM), the umbrella body for the mainstream protestant churches in the country, has, since 1995, collected and destroyed 700,000 guns held illegally, according to the CCM general secretary, Marcos Macamo, interviewed in Tuesday's issue of the independent daily "O Pais". TAE involves offering people holding illegal weapons useful... ( gunpolicy.org )
South Africa
Police Destroy Another 80,611 Guns in South African Firearm Amnesty
South African Press Association
15 January 2010
JOHANNESBURG - Gun control campaigners welcomed the destruction of 80 611 guns by the SA Police Service on Friday. The weapons thrown into the furnace included guns recovered through the ongoing nationwide firearm amnesty, as well as obsolete police weapons and guns previously recovered by police from crime scenes. IANSA (International Action Network on Small Arms) Africa said the destruction sent a positive signal to South... ( gunpolicy.org )
United Kingdom
Bristol's Pilot Amnesty Programme Nets 3 Handguns, 1 Shotgun, in 1 Day
BBC News
13 January 2010
Four firearms have been anonymously handed in to Bristol police in one day as part of an operation to cut gun crime in the city The weapons, three handguns and a shotgun, were handed in anonymously to police at Trinity Road station. An Avon and Somerset Police spokesman said criminals were handing over the guns as "they know the pressure's on". The operation, piloted in the city, will be rolled out across the force... ( gunpolicy.org )
United States
Orange County Buyback Hopes to Get Guns Off the Streets
MidHudsonNews.com
13 January 2010
NEWBURGH -- City officials say Newburgh will participate in Orange County's latest gun buyback program on January 16 from 10 a.m. -- 2 p.m. The buyback program is part of a countywide effort to get guns off the streets and keep them out of dangerous hands. In exchange for the weapons being turned in, no questions asked, the person turning the gun in will receive Shoprite gift cards. They range from $25 to $150 depending upon the... ( gunpolicy.org )
South Africa
Firearm Amnesty Law 'an Insult' say South African Shooters
Richmark Sentinel
12 January 2010
The new firearm amnesty has kicked off with all the pomp and ceremony that the police can muster for what may well prove to be a pivotal moment in gun ownership in South Africa. The problem is that there are unresolved issues relating to the Firearms Control Act of 2000 (Act) which still have to be sorted out. Chief among these is the application before the High Court, brought by the SA Hunters and Game Conservation Association,... ( gunpolicy.org )
South Africa
Amnesty Reduces South Africa's 'Pool of Illegal Guns'
AllAfrica.com
11 January 2010
Pretoria -- The dispossession of illegal and unwanted legal firearms during the new firearms amnesty period will significantly help in the fight against crime, says Police Minister Nathi Mthethwa. Addressing reporters on Monday on the firearms amnesty period which kicked off today and will end on 11 April, Mthethwa said the reduction of the number of firearms in circulation was an important part of the police's strategy to combat... ( gunpolicy.org )
Brazil
Brazil Announces Amnesty to Reduce 5million Unregistered Guns
Global Insight
11 January 2010
The Brazilian government has launched a new disarmament campaign, according to the interim justice minister Luis Paulo Barreto, Agencia Brasil reports. The Justice Ministry has also released data on a campaign to register firearms that ended on 31 December. The campaign saw 1.2 million arms registered last year and 14,544 arms handed over to the police in return for compensation. Anyone found with a weapon that has not been registered faces... ( gunpolicy.org )
South Africa
Impact of South Africa's Gun Amnesty Questioned
Mercury (Durban)
11 January 2010
With thousands of illegal firearms in circulation around the country, contributing to the high rate of serious and violent crimes, most political parties have welcomed the four-month gun amnesty that begins today, saying it will spur people with illegal firearms to surrender their weapons. The amnesty runs until April 11 and allows people to hand in illegal, unregistered firearms at any police station, without fear of prosecution.... ( gunpolicy.org )
Australia
Illegal Guns Seized Frequently as Australian Police Turn Up Heat on Gangs
ABC News (Australia), Transcript
30 December 2009
Hundreds of illegal guns have been seized in Australia recently in a police crackdown on organised criminal groups such as bikie gangs. The confiscated guns range from rifles to pistols. Just where are the guns coming from? Police can't say for sure but there are several likely sources. Brendan Trembath prepared this report. BRENDAN TREMBATH: Police wrap up a raid in the New South Wales southern highlands. Twenty-five... ( gunpolicy.org )
United States
LA County Police Gun Buyback Nets 5,334 Weapons, 144 Assault Rifles
Los Angeles Times
30 December 2009
L.A. County's gun exchange program collected 5,337 weapons in 2009, including 144 assault-style rifles. The Sheriff's Department, along with supporters of the Gifts for Guns program, handed out more than $428,100 in gift cards throughout the year at supermarket parking lots around the county in exchange for the guns. "I tell the deputies if it is a gun that could harm one of our deputies, then it is a gun we want off the... ( gunpolicy.org )
Africa,Kenya
Deadline Extended by Kenyan Government to 'Mop Up' Illegal Guns
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
27 December 2009
The government has extended the deadline on the general amnesty issued to pastoralists to surrender illegal firearms. In a statement to the press on Sunday, Internal Security minister Prof George Saitoti said the amnesty has been extended to January 20, 2010. The minister said his action was prompted by the good response by members of the pastoralist communities on the earlier amnesty that was issued by the Government.... ( gunpolicy.org )
Kenya
Civilians, Reservists Surrender Assault Weapons in Kenya Gun Ban Drive
Kenyan Broadcasting Service
21 December 2009
Residents of Iisiolo district have surrendered 177 assault rifles to the government in a bid to beat the amnesty period deadline. Security personnel have in the past two weeks also recovered 7,939 rounds of ammunition from civilians while Kenya police reservists have handed back 217 guns issued to them by the government. Isiolo DC Mr. James Mwaura commended the residents for surrendering illegal firearms and expressed optimism... ( gunpolicy.org )
United Kingdom
UK Man Caught Using 'I'm a Spy' Lie to Escape 'Dirty Harry' Handgun Rap
Telegraph (UK)
17 December 2009
A secret intelligence analyst, Neil McLellan, who escaped jail on firearms charges by claiming his job at GCHQ was pivotal to national security is behind bars after it was disclosed he had lied about his employment under oath. The 49 year-old escaped jail despite admitting possession of a "Dirty Harry" style .44 magnum handgun, after he lied about working at the intelligence centre in Cheltenham, Glos. He was given a suspended... ( gunpolicy.org )
Philippines
4,000 Guns Surrendered, Registered in East Visayas Firearm Amnesty
Philippine Daily Inquirer (Visayas)
14 December 2009
TACLOBAN CITY, Philippines -- The campaign of the Philippine National Police (PNP) on gun amnesty program, which ended last month, yielded more than 4,000 firearms in Eastern Visayas. Although the gun amnesty yielded only about 10 percent of the total estimated 43,400 loose firearms in the region, PNP Eastern Visayas information officer Senior Superintendent Manuel Cubillo described the campaign as successful. "We were... ( gunpolicy.org )
United States
Massachusetts Gun Buyback Swaps 122 Weapons for Walmart Vouchers
Telegram & Gazette (Massachusetts)
13 December 2009
Organizers of the Goods for Guns program said they took in 122 unwanted firearms and gave out about $5,800 worth of Walmart gift certificates during yesterday's initial phase of the annual two-day event. The program allows people to anonymously exchange working, unloaded firearms for gift certificates and has collected and destroyed 1,620 guns since 2002. Dr. Michael P. Hirsh, director of the Injury Free Coalition for Kids... ( gunpolicy.org )
Canada
A Chronology of Canadian Gun Control Laws and Long Gun Registry
CBC News (Canada)
4 December 2009
When Canada's auditor general tabled her December 2002 report, she set her sights on Ottawa's controversial gun-registry program. Sheila Fraser blasted the federal government for exceeding its estimated budget, saying that by the time the smoke cleared and all gun owners and their guns were registered, the program would have cost taxpayers more than $1 billion. Opposition critics were quick to point out that figure is 500 times... ( gunpolicy.org )
Canada
Nova Scotia Gun Amnesty, Buyback Swaps Cameras for 1,074 Firearms
CBC News (Canada)
3 December 2009
NOVA SCOTIA - More than 1,000 guns were collected during a month-long gun amnesty program in the Halifax area, police announced Thursday. The Pixels for Pistols program, which began Nov. 2, allowed local residents to turn in working guns in exchange for a new digital camera. Broken guns or ammunition could be traded for a gift card worth about $80. The program was a partnership between the police department and Henry's,... ( gunpolicy.org )
Philippines
Police Target 800,000 Loose Guns in Wake of Philippines Gun Massacre
Manila Bulletin
2 December 2009
Philippine National Police (PNP) has started the crackdown on all loose firearms and delinquent gun owners following the termination of the two-month nationwide gun amnesty on Monday. Director General Jesus Verzosa, PNP chief, said that their determination to account for the estimated 800,000 remaining loose firearms across the country was further buoyed by what he described as "tradition of feudal politics and clan conflict" that... ( gunpolicy.org )
Central Africa,East Africa,Kenya,Rwanda,Somalia,Sudan,Uganda,Burundi,Congo (DRC)
Small Arms Control Group Decries 'Huge' Proliferation of Guns in Africa
Xinhua
3 November 2009
NAIROBI -- The Regional Center on Small Arms (RECSA) has decried the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in the Great Lakes region, Horn of Africa and bordering states. RECSA Executive Secretary Francis Sang noted that the center was working in collaboration with the UN Regional Center for Peace and Disarmament in Africa to promote disarmament. To address this problem, he said, the governments should support the... ( gunpolicy.org )
South Africa
President Zuma, Gun Ownership and What the Gun Crime Trends Tell Us
Independent (Dhaka)
29 October 2009
On Sunday 25 October 2009 at a political rally in Limpopo province, South African President Jacob Zuma publicly raised concerns about the number of firearms in the hands of private citizens. In a move that is sure to anger the pro-gun lobby, Zuma suggested that a review of legislation governing firearm ownership was necessary in light of the country's crime challenges and the number of legally owned firearms stolen from citizens. President... ( gunpolicy.org )
Australia
Last Days for Gun Amnesty Handover in Victoria
Advertiser (Adelaide)
28 October 2009
There are just a few days left to surrender weapons to Victoria Police under its month-long arms amnesty. More than 10 items have so far been handed in to Wodonga officers during the statewide weapons and firearms amnesty, including five guns and five knives or swords. Benalla police also received five firearms as well as ammunition. The scheme, which runs all October, allows people the chance to surrender any... ( gunpolicy.org )
Burundi
More Than 10,000 Guns Surrendered for Destruction in Burundi Amnesty
Agence France Presse
28 October 2009
BUJUMBURA -- A Burundian disarmament taskforce said Wednesday it had received more than 70,000 arms surrendered by civilians over the past two years in war-wracked country. Dozens of others queued up to surrender their weapons, which included guns and grenades, as a midnight Wednesday deadline to voluntarily do so neared. "We are very satisfied with the work achieved since 2007. Today, on the last day for civilians to voluntarily... ( gunpolicy.org )
Uganda
Uganda Claims to Have Seized 90% of Illegal Guns in Karamoja Region
New Vision (Kampala)
17 October 2009
KAMPALA -- Over 90% (27,199) of the illegal weapons in Karamoja sub-region have been recovered since the inception of the ongoing disarmament exercise in 2001. A statement issued after a five-day UPDF top leadership disarmament evaluation meeting in Moroto army barracks, said 10% (about 3,000) of the remaining Karimojong guns are buried underground in a bid to evade confiscation. "Arms trafficking into Karamoja has not... ( gunpolicy.org )
Australia
Licensed Australian Gun Owners Face Police Visit, Storage Inspection
Cumberland Courier (New South Wales)
9 October 2009
Northern Beaches Police will be turning up on the doorstep of every licensed gun owner in the area over the next four years to check their firearms are stored correctly. Operation Aston follows the gun amnesty that ended on May 31 and will target guns stored incorrectly and the security of gun safes, Northern Beaches Commander Doreen Cruickshank said. "Gun owners have a responsibility to ensure their weapon is safely stored... ( gunpolicy.org )
Canada
MP Takes Aim at Tories Over Costly Waiver of Gun Registration Fees
Prince George Citizen (British Columbia)
7 October 2009
Regardless of Tory talk of taxes, waiving fees on the long-gun registry leaves Canadians out of pocket, says a northern B.C. MP. Nathan Cullen made the comments in the wake of a CBC report that an amnesty on fees gun owners paid to the federal program to register their weapons cost $15.3 million this year and will cost $60 million over the next three. Cariboo-Prince George MP Dick Harris said Tuesday he makes no apologies for the... ( gunpolicy.org )
Canada
Ottawa Forgoes $60million in Firearm Fees to Pacify Canadian Gun Lobby
CBC News (Canada)
5 October 2009
The Conservative government is forgoing millions of dollars in gun registry and licensing fees at a time when the government is running record budget deficits. Documents obtained by the CBC under access to information show the federal government's decision to waive fees for people licensing their firearms will cost more than $15 million this year alone. Should the fee waiver be extended for another three years, internal forecasts... ( gunpolicy.org )
Philippines
Police Seize 324 Guns in Philippines Pre-election Crackdown, Amnesty
Mindanao Times
2 October 2009
The Philippine National Police confiscated 324 guns in the region even before the last leg of the firearms amnesty program. Chief Supt. Pedro Tango, Davao Regional Police Office director, said the loose firearms were recovered from various police operations ranging from checkpoints to operation kapkap (frisking). Based on the region's accomplishment of the Letter of Instruction "Kontra-Boga," from July 1 to September 30. Tango... ( gunpolicy.org )
Australia
Crackdown on Unregistered Imitation Firearms in South Australia
ABC News (Australia)
1 October 2009
The South Australian Government is cracking down on people who have unregistered imitation firearms. People caught with unregistered or unauthorised imitations will face a maximum of 15 years in jail or a $75,000 fine. Authorities are concerned that imitations can be converted to fire bullets, and that they are often used in robberies and other crimes. But an amnesty has been declared until the end of the year.... ( gunpolicy.org )
Philippines
Politicians, Bodyguards Targeted for Illegal Guns in Philippine Election
Manila Bulletin
29 September 2009
BANGUED, Abra -- The leadership of the Police Regional Office (PRO) in the Cordillera said at least 1,200 illegal firearms are believed to be in circulation in this conflict-stricken province, a major deterrent to lasting peace as well as honest, orderly and peaceful elections next year. Chief Supt. Samuel B. Diciano, PRO-COR deputy regional director for administration, said the local police have intensified operations against loose... ( gunpolicy.org )
Nigeria
Arms Amnesty Has Reduced Gun Running in Nigeria, Says Government
Leadership (Abuja)
24 September 2009
ABUJA -- The Director-General of Peace and Conflict Resolution, Dr. Joseph Gowa has said that the amnesty programme of the Federal Government has reduced the incidence of arms competition among militant groups in the Niger Delta region and also reduced the influx of small arms and light weapons into the restive area. He said the programme has achieved great results and has the potential of addressing the problems of the region if... ( gunpolicy.org )
Philippines
Illegal Guns Flood Mindanao, Fuel Insecurity, Promote Armed Violence
IRIN (UN News)
23 September 2009
DAPIAWAN, Philippines -- A .45 calibre pistol is tucked into the waistband of a tricycle driver as he speeds along a desolate stretch of highway that cuts through a Muslim rebel stronghold in the southern Philippine town of Datu Piang in Mindanao. "I can get attacked by bandits, rebels or my enemies, and my gun spells the difference between life and death," he told IRIN. Similar scenarios are played out across this strife-torn,... ( gunpolicy.org )
Canada
Police Visit Toronto Gun Owners, Seize 400 Guns, Say 1 in 12 Breaks Law
Toronto Star (Ontario)
22 September 2009
Right at this moment in Toronto, there are as many as 4,000 illegal guns tucked under beds, stashed in closets or hidden in dresser drawers. Complicated amnesty laws around gun legislation have many owners confused. Now the city's Guns and Gangs unit is going door to door setting people straight. "If you have to ask the question if you are licensed... I can pretty much guarantee you are not in compliance," said Superintendent... ( gunpolicy.org )
United States
Florida Gun Buyback Runs Out of Cash 3 times, Sheriff Pays Out $35,000
Bradenton Herald (Florida)
20 September 2009
BRADENTON, Florida -- A winding line of gun-toting residents stood outside the Manatee County Sheriff's Office on Saturday afternoon for a shot to sell their guns. "Honestly, I think the wrong people are standing in line," said Leo Blackman, 34, of Bradenton, as he waited with six guns and a box of ammo. "Everyone standing here is calm and orderly. We're not the ones they are worried about having a gun." He had been waiting... ( gunpolicy.org )
Zambia
Illegal Firearms Targeted by Gun Amnesty in Zambia's Western Province
Post (Zambia)
16 September 2009
SENANGA -- Western Province permanent secretary Ikanuke Noyoo has appealed to people with illegal firearms in the province to surrender them to the government since the amnesty was still in place. In interview, Noyoo said that Western Province's Shangombo, Kalabo and Kaoma were the worst affected districts with illegal firearms in civilian hands. "The Minister of Home Affairs has already put in place a programme to dispatch... ( gunpolicy.org )
United States
New Bedford Churches, Synagogues Offer 'No Questions' Gun Amnesty
South Coast Today (Massachusetts)
14 September 2009
NEW BEDFORD -- The city's faith community is taking a renewed stand against gun violence, teaming with city and law enforcement officials to run anti-gun seminars, organizing a community-wide walk for peace with Bishop George W. Coleman and offering churches as "safe-havens" where gun owners can turn in their weapons "with no questions asked." Several local priests, ministers and rabbis plan to use their pulpits this weekend to... ( gunpolicy.org )
Philippines
Police, Government Agencies Confer to Collect Illegal Guns in Philippines
Philippine Information Agency, Media release
14 September 2009
BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya -- The Philippine National Police (PNP) recently coordinated with other law enforcement agencies here to help facilitate, track and account loose firearms in the province. Police Supt. Pedro Danguilan, police provincial director said they have just conducted a meeting with law enforcement agencies of the government such as the National Bureau of Investigation(NBI), Bureau of Jail management and Penology(BJMP),... ( gunpolicy.org )
United States
Studies Show Gun Buybacks Do Little to Reduce US Armed Violence
Bradenton Herald (Florida)
13 September 2009
MANATEE -- Spurred by the death of a Bayshore High cheerleader, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office is holding a gun buyback to help deter future violent crimes. Though the sight of dozens of soon-to-be-destroyed guns might be comforting, multiple studies have shown that buyback programs probably don't reduce gun violence. The studies show that the programs make only a small dent in the local gun market. Many of the guns... ( gunpolicy.org )
Slovakia
Slovakia Launches Gun Amnesty, Aims to Collect Unregistered Firearms
SITA Online (Baratislava)
10 September 2009
BRATISLAVA -- As of October, citizens of Slovakia will have seven months to hand in illegally held arms and ammunition without being charged for it. This stems from amendment to the law on arms and ammunition, which lawmakers approved in the third reading. Of the 129 deputies present in the150-member parliament, 119 supported the bill. The ministry estimates that the number of illegally held firearms and ammunition will... ( gunpolicy.org )
Philippines
Police Admit Failure as Philippine Gun Amnesty Falters in Cebu
Cebu Daily News
9 September 2009
SENIOR Supt. Jesus Gaquing, Cebu provincial police director, yesterday admitted that the police were faring poorly in the campaign against loose firearms. He said the police were only able to seize 51 unlicensed firearms in August, way below the target of 300. Gaquing held a command conference yesterday with the chiefs of police of municipalities and component cities. Police have two programs for loose firearms:... ( gunpolicy.org )
Philippines
Police Offer Reward for Tip-offs Leading to Illegal Guns in Philippines
Daily Tribune (Manila)
21 August 2009
The Philippine National Police (PNP) will establish a rewards program for persons who can pinpoint the existence of loose firearms after the end of the gun amnesty period on Oct. 31, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Ronaldo Puno said yesterday. Puno said once these loose or unlicensed guns are confiscated, the PNP might opt to donate them to the local police station in the barangay or town where these... ( gunpolicy.org )
Philippines
Philippine Police Move to Recover 1.1 Million Illegal, Unlicensed Guns
Agence France Presse
19 August 2009
MANILA -- Philippine police on Tuesday warned political warlords to turn in unlicensed firearms ahead of the May 2010 presidential vote to prevent bloodshed among rival candidates. National police chief Director General Jesus Versoza said there were an estimated 1.11 million unlicensed guns in the hands of civilians, private armies and Muslim and communist insurgents. This is on top of the estimated 1.8 million firearms... ( gunpolicy.org )
Georgia, Russia
South Ossetia Tries to Disarm Its Citizens with Amnesty, Buyback
New York Times
15 August 2009
TSKHINVALI, Georgia -- For years, there was not much difference between a civilian and a soldier in South Ossetia, which was embroiled in a long struggle to separate from Georgia. David G. Sanakoyev, for example, wore a tie during the day. As South Ossetia's ombudsman for human rights, he handled complaints about prison conditions or unlawful firings. Three times a week, after work, he changed into camouflage and took up a position... ( gunpolicy.org )
Philippines
20,000 Expired-licence Gun Owners Apply for Philippine Firearm Amnesty
Philippine Daily Inquirer
11 August 2009
MANILA, Philippines -- In its first month of implementation, the Philippine National Police's gun amnesty program has already attracted almost 20,000 gun owners with expired licenses, Director General Jesus Verzosa said on Tuesday. As of July 31, a total of 19,824 expired firearms licenses had already been renewed out of the estimated 559,326 loose firearms with expired licenses, Verzosa said. The final gun amnesty of the... ( gunpolicy.org )
Nigeria
Rebels Retain Their Weapons in Slow Start for Niger Delta Gun Amnesty
Inter Press Service News Agency
10 August 2009
Nigeria's president Umaru Yar'Adua is embarking on an ambitious move to end armed insurgency in the country's oil-rich Niger Delta region. Under a government initiative which started on Aug, 6, militants in the region have 60 days to hand over their arms in return for a presidential amnesty, unconditional pardon and reintegration programme. As the first week of the amnesty period draws to a close, only a few weapons have... ( gunpolicy.org )
Kenya
6000 Arrows, 11 Guns Surrendered in Kenya's Illegal Weapon Amnesty
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
9 August 2009
NAIROBI -- The government plans to extend the amnesty period for those willing to surrender weapons used during the post-election violence. The amnesty is to expire in two weeks but the ministry for Special Programmes said the period may be extended. Some 6,000 arrows and 11 guns have already been surrendered. ( gunpolicy.org )
Philippines
Guns to Be Beaten Into Gardening Tools in Philippine Firearm Amnesty
Philippine Daily Inquirer
3 August 2009
MANILA, Philippines -- The Philippine National Police Tuesday said it will start accepting applications for gun licenses under a new firearms amnesty program on Aug. 1. The amnesty program, approved by Malacañang earlier this month, aims to reduce gun-related violence in next year's presidential election. Police estimate there are roughly 1.1 million unregistered firearms around the country. At the launch of its... ( gunpolicy.org )
United States
16,000 Guns Crushed, Turned Into Steel Reinforcing in Los Angeles
Los Angeles Times, Blog
28 July 2009
Officials today will destroy 16,000 guns confiscated from criminals and collected from numerous gun buy-back programs across L.A. County. Law enforcement agencies have attempted to get guns off the street by allowing people to turn them in for gift cards. Back in March, an LAPD gun-buyback program that traded gift cards for firearms netted nearly 1,700 weapons, including 40 assault-style weapons and a rifle with a grenade... ( gunpolicy.org )
Philippines
Gun Amnesty 'Minimalist, Lazy Way of Enforcing Law' in Philippines
ABS-CBN News (Manila), Column
17 July 2009
Once again, the government is issuing a general firearms amnesty. In October, all those whose guns are not duly licensed may have their weapons registered, no questions asked. Amnesties are meant to encourage those who are in violation of the law to straighten out their situation. But how often should amnesties be given? If it is given too often, people are not pushed to comply with the law from the start. This is the case... ( gunpolicy.org )
Turks & Caicos
Tiny Caribbean State (pop. 23,000) Imports Guns, Ammo Worth $2 Million
Turks & Caicos Weekly News
17 July 2009
Almost $2m worth of guns and ammunition has been imported by Islanders in the last three years, the Weekly News can reveal. The alarming number of licensed firearms in the TCI is raising fears that the nation could be headed for the same fate as many of its trigger-happy Caribbean neighbours, plagued by spiralling gun crime. Figures -- contained in the Government's external merchandise trade statistics 2008 -- show that... ( gunpolicy.org )
Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea Parliament Tables 4 Year-old Gun Control Report
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
16 July 2009
More than 1400 individuals and their families have been hurt or traumatised in instances where guns were reportedly used to commit crimes in the country. Guns are used to kill people, commit rape, robberies, used in tribal fights and other violent crimes where these weapons play a major role. Many people in PNG are victims of gun-related incidents while many more have lost loved ones, family members and properties in gun-related... ( gunpolicy.org )
Philippines
Police Hope to Register 33,000 'Loose' Firearms in Philippine Amnesty
Philippines Star
14 July 2009
MANILA, Philippines -- The Philippine National Police (PNP) will start processing loose gun license applications and renewal on August 1. PNP chief Director General Jesus Versoza said this will allow the PNP ample time to process the applications ahead of the effectivity of the 1-month general amnesty period for registration of loose firearms on October 1 to 31, 2009, as provided under Executive Order 817. "We are starting... ( gunpolicy.org )
United States
Police Blame Fear, Lax Gun Laws, Social Trends for Plague of Firearms
Tennessean (Nashville)
13 July 2009
On the streets of Nashville, the business of guns is booming. The reasons include everything from a fear that President Barack Obama's new administration will crack down on gun sales, to recent legislative action opening more public places to carry-permit holders, to something more elusive in media culture that gives gun ownership a certain cachet. This isn't a welcome development for Metro police. In a week that... ( gunpolicy.org )
Philippines
Gun Dealers Air Concern at Philippine Police Plan for Weapon Amnesty
Manila Bulletin
11 July 2009
An organization of firearms dealers in the country expressed concern over the government's gun amnesty program which will be implemented in October this year, saying that the strategy of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in its campaign on loose firearms would only benefit gun smugglers. Lawyer Hector Rodriguez, president Association of Firearms and Ammunition Dealers (AFAD), said that the PNP should have learned its lesson when... ( gunpolicy.org )
Scotland, United Kingdom
Airgun Killings, Injury Move Scotland Towards Total Ban on Pellet Guns
Scotsman (Edinburgh), Opinion
26 June 2009
When two-year-old Andrew Morton was killed four years ago after being shot with an airgun, there were widespread demands for a crackdown on the deadly weapons. Andrew was being carried by his 13-year-old brother in Glasgow's Easterhouse estate when he was hit by a pellet in the head. An unemployed 27-year-old man, who had been taking pot shots from the window of his flat, was later sentenced to life imprisonment for murder. ... ( gunpolicy.org )
Ghana
Police Chief Orders His Officers to Return Stolen Guns, Offers Amnesty
Daily Guide (Accra)
14 June 2009
The Director-General of Police Operations, DCOP John Kudalor, has given personnel of the police service a one-week ultimatum to return guns which might be in their possession illegally to avoid punitive measures. The Director-General who was addressing journalists at the National Police Headquarters, Accra on Thursday said those who failed to comply with the directive would be severely punished while obedient personnel would have... ( gunpolicy.org )
Australia
Most Recent Australian Gun Amnesty Nets More Than 4,300 Weapons
Sydney Morning Herald / AAP
9 June 2009
A three-month gun amnesty in NSW has netted more than 4,300 weapons, including 3,000 rifles. NSW Police Minister Tony Kelly said the firearms amnesty, which ran from March 1 until May 31, had resulted in 4,323 firearms being handed in. Under the amnesty, those with a gun licence but unregistered weapons were able to register them. People without a gun licence were able to surrender their firearms without penalty... ( gunpolicy.org )
Australia
Amnesty Nets Hundreds of Guns for Destruction in Australian Capital
ABC News (Australia)
3 June 2009
Hundreds of guns have been handed into ACT police during a three-month gun amnesty. During the amnesty -- which ends on Sunday -- unregistered and prohibited firearms can be given up to police without penalty. Around 220 guns and 6,000 rounds of ammunition have been surrendered. More than 700 additional firearms have also been registered during the period. ACT Chief Police Officer Michael Phelan says some... ( gunpolicy.org )
Sierra Leone
Gun Smuggling, Home-made Firearms Worry Sierra Leone Police, NGOs
Awoko (Freetown)
28 May 2009
The Assistant Inspector General of Police Eastern Region Al-Shek Kamara has disclosed that the rate at which light weapon and small arms are entering through the porous borders of the country is very alarming. He also stated that most of these weapons are found within the Gola Forest chiefdoms in the region. The AIG east made this disclosure while addressing Traditional rulers, civil society and other stakeholders in the eastern... ( gunpolicy.org )
Germany
New Gun Law Tightens German Background Checks, Age Limits, Storage
Associated Press
28 May 2009
BERLIN -- Germany's cabinet approved legislation that would tighten gun restrictions, two months after a teenager shot and killed 12 people. The law, which requires parliamentary approval, would mean stricter checks on weapons owners and a higher age limit for users of large-caliber weapons. Calls for tougher laws followed the March 11 shooting spree in which Tim Kretschmer, 17 years old, used a pistol taken from his father's... ( gunpolicy.org )
Australia
3,299 Firearms Surrendered in New South Wales Gun Amnesty
Daily Telegraph (Sydney)
26 May 2009
More than 3000 guns have been handed in to police in a state-wide firearms amnesty. Cootamundra residents handed in more illegal weapons than any other police district. NSW police said 3299 firearms were handed in during the amnesty which runs until May 31. Cootamundra police collected 200 guns from a population of about 7000. Around NSW, police have received 75 replica firearms, 777 rounds of ammunition,... ( gunpolicy.org )
Australia
Thousands More Guns Voluntarily Handed In for Destruction in Australia
Sydney Morning Herald / AAP
25 May 2009
Residents of Cootamundra have surrendered the most weapons in NSW during a statewide firearms amnesty that's netted thousands of guns. NSW police said the firearms amnesty, which runs between March 1 and May 31, had resulted in 3,299 firearms being handed in, as of Monday. Police at Cootamundra, in southwest NSW, have collected some 200 illegal guns during the amnesty, which police say is the greatest number of firearms... ( gunpolicy.org )
Sudan
To Redevelop Sudan, Buy Back Guns from Ex-Combatants and Civilians
New Sudan Vision, Opinion
24 May 2009
Sudan as a whole is and will continue to be in oddities from the post-conflict spilt over small arms and their misuse for quite sometime. If we, however, inject some science in this scenario in order to define and justify this eccentricity, it would be logical to see the inter-tribal small arms' conflict as after-shock from the aftermath of the twenty one years of a brutal war with each other. These definitions and many others will help... ( gunpolicy.org )
Canada
Canadian Firearm Owners Exempt from Gun Registry, Fees for 4th Year
Canadian Press
15 May 2009
WINNIPEG -- The federal government has once again extended its amnesty for long-gun owners who haven't registered their firearms. Treasury Board President Vic Toews says it's still the government's intention to kill the registry for long-gun owners -- something opposition parties would have to agree to in the minority Parliament. But for now the government is giving people another year to sign up their unregistered, non-restricted... ( gunpolicy.org )
Canada
Tories Extend Canadian Long Gun Amnesty, Drop Fees for Another Year
CBC News (Canada)
15 May 2009
The federal government will once again offer a one-year amnesty to long gun owners who have yet to register their firearms with the federal gun registry, Treasury Board president Vic Toews said Friday. Speaking in Winnipeg, Toews said the Conservatives still intend to do away with the registry, which was brought in by a previous Liberal government and has been relentlessly lampooned by the Tories as a bloated bureaucratic boondoggle.... ( gunpolicy.org )
Germany
Germany to Tighten Gun Control, National Firearm Registry, Ban Paintball
Deutsche Welle / AFP
12 May 2009
The Christian Democratic Union and the Social Democrat Party agreed on Tuesday evening to reforms to Germany's gun laws, which include a controversial ban on war games like paintball or laser-tag. Both coalition parties still have to approve the negotiated outcomes. The reforms are to be presented to parliament in late May, so that they can be dealt with before the election in September. The draft law would also bar youths... ( gunpolicy.org )
United States
No Shred of Evidence That Municipal Gun Buybacks Reduce Gun Violence
Los Angeles Times, Editorial
12 May 2009
For political theater, few things beat gun buyback programs such as the one held Saturday in Los Angeles. The resulting stacks of shotguns, rifles, handguns and even assault weapons make great TV and give the impression that politicians and police chiefs are putting a dent in the supply of dangerous firearms. It's fodder for a slow news day and a harmless enough marketing ploy -- but really reducing gun crime requires more than feel-good... ( gunpolicy.org )
Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea Police Minister Mulls Costly Buyback of Illegal Guns
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
5 May 2009
High-powered firearms will not be surrendered to police as they are viewed as tools for defensive reasons. This was the sentiment shared by Police Minister Sani Rambi when asked about the possibility of high-powered firearms ever being surrendered in relation to the idea of the guns buyback strategy implemented by him last year. When asked how far he was with a draft on the guns buyback strategy, he said that he was yet... ( gunpolicy.org )
Australia
Sydney Collector Surrenders Military Assault Rifles, Automatic Shotguns
NSW Police Force, Media release
19 April 2009
A collection of prohibited high-powered military-grade weapons, including fully-automatic assault rifles and shotguns, has been handed in to police during the State Government's Firearms Amnesty. Around 10pm on Wednesday, 15 April, lawyers for a local gun owner attended the Manly Police Station and presented officers with a large, locked metal box. When detectives from the State Crime Command's Firearms and Organised Crime... ( gunpolicy.org )
Australia
Sydney Gun Dealer, Collector Gives Up Illegal Automatic Assault Weapons
Sydney Morning Herald
19 April 2009
An alleged illegal gun dealer charged by police over a hoard of military firearms, including the first AK-47 assault rifle seized in NSW, has used the gun amnesty to surrender more firearms. A solicitor acting for Allan Driver, 59, of Elanora Heights, stunned Firearms and Organised Crime Squad officers by surrendering six high-powered weapons and ammunition to Manly police on Wednesday. Police said the weapons were inside... ( gunpolicy.org )
Australia
Canberrans Hand In 66 Firearms During ACT Gun Amnesty
ABC News (Australia)
14 April 2009
The ACT Government says 66 unregistered or unlicensed guns have been handed in during the first half of a three month amnesty period. The amnesty is calling on ACT gun owners without permits will be able to surrender their firearms to police without penalties. Nine of the weapons handed in are prohibited firearms, including a semi-automatic rifle and a semi-automatic shotgun. ACT Police Minister Simon Corbell says... ( gunpolicy.org )
Australia
796 Guns Surrendered, 5,000 Registered in Australian Firearm Amnesty
Australian Associated Press
5 April 2009
Owners of more than 5,000 firearms previously unknown to NSW police have come forward during the first month of the state government's gun amnesty. Police Minister Tony Kelly says 796 firearms have been surrendered in the first month of the amnesty, with applications also taken out to register 5,000 weapons. The surrendered guns include 606 rifles, 49 handguns, 141 shotguns and 11 replica firearms. "The police... ( gunpolicy.org )
Australia
New Australian Amnesty Sends 796 Guns for Destruction in First Month
Sydney Morning Herald
4 April 2009
Almost 800 illegal firearms have been surrendered during the first month of a three-month amnesty. NSW Police Minister Tony Kelly said 606 rifles, 49 handguns and 141 shotguns were handed in to police stations across the state since the amnesty began on March 1. It had netted 11 replica firearms, 151 pieces of ammunition and 76 firearms parts and telescopic sights, while there had been 4932 applications for the registration... ( gunpolicy.org )
Australia
Machine Guns, AK-47, .50cal Sniper Rifle Seized in Australian Police Raid
Australian Associated Press
2 April 2009
An AK-47 assault rifle, a high-calibre sniper rifle and machine guns are among a large cache of weapons uncovered by police in a sting operation culminating in a series of Sydney raids. The Russian-designed Kalashnikov military rifle is the first recovered by New South Wales police. Two men have been arrested after the year-long operation targeting the illegal supply of military-style firearms and other weapons, which culminated... ( gunpolicy.org )
Philippines
Philippine Police Plan To Hold National Summit for Firearms Control in April
Philippine Star
30 March 2009
MANILA, Philippines -- The Philippine National Police (PNP) is planning to hold a national summit for firearms control next month in an effort to help address the problem of loose firearms in the country. The summit would help law enforcement grasp the issues involving loose firearms, PNP chief Director General Jesus Verzosa said. "As recommended by FED (Firearms and Explosives Division), it (national summit for firearms... ( gunpolicy.org )
Sudan
Sudan's Gun Amnesty, Destruction Drive Poorly Planned, Says Report
Sudan Times
29 March 2009
WASHINGTON -- A new report by Small Arms Survey describes the disarmament campaign ordered last year by President Salva Kiir Mayardit as "poorly planned, highly decentralized, and inadequately supported by the Government of South Sudan." The campaign was partly coercive, but "the process was largely non-violent, mainly due to weak implementation in many areas" said the report. This contrasts with a bloody campaign in 2006, especially... ( gunpolicy.org )
Philippines
Manila Police Want Tighter Gun Control Measures to Combat Crime
Philippine Star
28 March 2009
MANILA -- Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Jesus Verzosa urged Congress to enact measures that would make illegal possession of high-powered firearms a non-bailable offense. Verzosa cited a case in Pampanga wherein alleged members of a notorious bank robbery gang were arrested and charged for illegal possession of firearms. The gang led by a certain Ampang Colangco went on with their robbery spree... ( gunpolicy.org )
Philippines
Philippine Police Say Gun Amnesty May Raise Demand, Gun Smuggling
Philippine Star
27 March 2009
MANILA, Philippines -- Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Jesus Verzosa urged Congress yesterday to enact measures that would make illegal possession of high-powered firearms a non-bailable offense. Verzosa cited a case in Pampanga wherein alleged members of a notorious bank robbery gang were arrested and charged for illegal possession of firearms. The gang led by a certain Ampang Colangco went on with... ( gunpolicy.org )
Ghana
Weapon Demand Ignored, Gun Buyback on Road to Failure in Ghana
Daily Graphic (Ghana)
25 March 2009
A security analyst, Mr Emmanuel Sowatey, has described the weapons buy-back move by the Northern Regional Security Council (REGSEC) as wrong and out of place. He said the initiative of the REGSEC, although laudable, should have addressed the causes of the demand-supply chain of the weapons, adding that weapons buy-back scheme had always been part of a major peace process and was never taken in isolation. Mr Sowatey told... ( gunpolicy.org )
Somalia
Islamists Impose Order to Legalize Guns of the People in Somalia
Shabelle Media Network (Mogadishu)
14 March 2009
BARDHERE -- Sheik Mohamed Muhumad Isma'il known as (Gadaashay), a head of education of al-Shabab administration has said on Saturday that they have imposed order to the people of Bardhere town in south-western Somalia to bring their weapons and legalize. Reports from Bardhere say that the administration ordered to all the people of the town to bring their weapons in the station of the town with in 48 hours and he added that the... ( gunpolicy.org )
Canada
More Canadian Cops Accused of Stealing, Recirculating Guns in Amnesty
Globe & Mail (Toronto)
9 March 2009
MONTREAL -- Lieutenant Raymond Neveu knew the Sept-Îles police station was in big trouble when drugs disappeared from the evidence room. Then guns strewn about the floor of the exhibit locker went missing, too. Seven officers are now suspended and two among them, including Lt. Neveu, face criminal charges in a scandal that has exposed chaos in the northern Quebec provincial police outpost. The case has also brought... ( gunpolicy.org )
Congo (ROC)
Congo Pays US$200 Each to Buy Back, Destroy 3,000 Assault Weapons
IRIN (UN News)
4 March 2009
BRAZZAVILLE -- At least 2,800 weapons recovered from ex-combatants in a three-week operation in the southern Pool region, site of several civil wars between 1998 and 2003, have been destroyed, according to a government official. "On Monday afternoon, in Kinkala, we incinerated some 2,873 weapons collected from ninja ex-combatants in the Pool region," Moandzibi Olingoba, the commissioner in charge of the economic reintegration of... ( gunpolicy.org )
Australia
South Australians Surrender More Than 1100 Guns During Amnesty
Advertiser (Adelaide)
4 March 2009
More than 1100 firearms, including several illegal guns, have been handed into police as part of a three-month amnesty. The 1144 weapons included handguns, pump action rifles, high capacity magazines and self-loading shot guns. Some of the weapons were handmade and some were more than 100 years old. Premier Mike Rann said he was surprised at the number of guns handed in considering more than 1400 guns were passed... ( gunpolicy.org )
Australia
Three Month Gun Amnesty a 'Success' say VIC Police
ABC News (Australia)
4 March 2009
A three-month firearms amnesty has netted more than 1,100 guns in South Australia. More than 900 were single-barrel rifles and more than 100 shotguns were turned in. Some of the guns dated back to late 1800s and early 1900s. Police Chief Inspector Jim Langmead says a number of the guns handed in were unregistered or illegal. "The amnesty is that you have the chance to walk in and hand the firearm in and... ( gunpolicy.org )
Australia
Spate of Shootings Triggers New Gun Amnesty in Australia's Largest State
Sydney Morning Herald / AAP
1 March 2009
A promised NSW-wide three-month gun amnesty has started with police and the state government urging people to register or surrender unlicensed firearms. The gun crackdown, announced last December, follows a spate of gun related incidents across Sydney. In mid-December, Sydney man John Kudrytch shot dead his ex-wife, and then himself, despite being the subject of an apprehended violence order (AVO). Earlier in the... ( gunpolicy.org )
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