Top of PageGun Policy News
Firearm violence, gun control and small arms
Germany,Nigeria,China,United States,United Kingdom
Former Doyen of UK Gun Lobby Pleads Guilty to More Gunrunning
17 May 2013
Democrat and Chronicle (USA)
British arms dealer Gary Hyde has admitted helping smuggle illegal AK-47 magazines into the United States for sale by a Chili-based firearms wholesaler, federal court records show.
Hyde signed a plea agreement in late April but it was not filed until this week, records show.
Hyde admitted that he had helped alter the markings on the 5,760 magazines so their country of origin — China — would not be known. In the U.S., there is a federal ban on the importation of... (GunPolicy.org)
Namibia Police Issued 15,000 Gun Licenses in Two Years
17 May 2013
Namibian (Windhoek)
Police issued close to 15,000 licenses for guns to civilians in the past two years, according to figures The Namibian obtained yesterday. One licensee can have up to four firearms.
Edwin Kanguatjivi, the head of the Public Relations Division of the Namibian Police confirmed that in 2011 police gave greenlight to just over 7,100 license applications and about 7,600 licenses were issued in 2012. Last year the police rejected 178 applications for licenses, a few more than... (GunPolicy.org)
South African Man Denies Fatal Shooting of Former Girlfriend
15 May 2013
News24 (Cape Town) / The Witness
PIETERMARITZBURG - A KwaZulu-Natal man charged with murdering the mother of his child after she had obtained a protection order against him has denied killing her.
Thembinkosi Sibiya, 27, is charged with shooting Gugu Anette Ndlela in the head on 3 November 2011, when he also allegedly tried to shoot Ntuthuko Nxasana, the man he believed she was in a relationship with.
He pleaded not guilty before acting judge Sibusiso Mngomezulu in the KwaZulu-Natal High Court on... (GunPolicy.org)
Iranian Jailed for Illegal Arms Importation into Nigeria
14 May 2013
This Day (Lagos)
Justice Okechukwu Okeke of the Federal High Court in Lagos monday sentenced an Iranian national, Azim Aghajani, and his Nigerian counterpart, Ali Jega, to 17 years imprisonment each for their involvement in the importation of firearms into Nigeria.
Justice Okeke while delivering his judgment, held that he was not in doubt that the 13 containers loaded with arms were imported into the country, contrary to the claim by the accused persons that the containers contained... (GunPolicy.org)
Zambia Minister Asks Police to Revive Gun Amnesty to Reduce Crime
12 May 2013
Times of Zambia
Home Affairs Minister Edgar Lungu has urged the Zambia Police Service to revive the gun amnesty and buy-back schemes to reduce the number of illicit firearms in Zambia.
Mr Lungu said the police should seriously look into the increased misuse of firearms that were mostly smuggled into Zambia.
He said this when he officiated at the opening of Kanele Shopping Mall and Kanele Enterprise yesterday.
"The regulations of firearms dealing are continuously being stiffened both... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Authorities Plan Crackdown on Illegal Guns
10 May 2013
Star (Kenya)
Western PC James Serian has said the regional security team is profiling people with illegal arms. "There are illegal firearms in Western particularly in Mt Elgon, Malaba, Teso, Busia, along the Kenya and even Kakamega. Currently we are profiling all persons we suspect have fire arms," said Serian.
He said the provincial security team will start an operation to recover all guns in wrong hands in the area. Serian said the porous Kenya-Uganda border could be blamed for... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Police Deny Allegations Guns Being Issued to Unlicensed People
9 May 2013
Star (Kenya)
MOMBASA - An assistant police commissioner has denied claims that firearms are being issue to unvetted people. Central Firearms Bureau chief licensing officer David Baya said firearms are only issued to civilians after going through a series of thorough interrogations by security officers at different levels.
A civilian who owned a licensed gun told media houses that there is a broker in Mombasa behind the deals. He said the broker cuts deals between senior security... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Confirm 1 Million Illegal Guns in Nigeria
9 May 2013
Daily Newswatch (Nigeria)
Against the backdrop of mounting security challenges in Nigeria arising from the Boko Haram insurgency and ethno-religious crisis in the north as well as armed robbery and kidnapping in the south, it has been estimated that there are about one million illegally held guns in the country in civilian hands. The market price for most popular of them all, the AK-47 pattern of assault weapon, goes for $180 (about N27,000). While the total number of guns in the hands of... (GunPolicy.org)
German Arms Firm Illegally Sold Weapons to Mexico
7 May 2013
InSight Crime (Bogota)
A German arms manufacturer has admitted to illegally selling thousands of rifles to Mexico, where the weapons were reportedly used to commit human rights violations.
Heckler & Koch, which produces weapons such as pistols, machine guns, and grenade launchers, is under investigation by German authorities for exporting G36 rifles to several Mexican states where Germany prohibits gun sales, due to human rights concerns.
The company previously claimed it had only ever... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Licence Dispute Continues in South Africa
30 April 2013
Eyewitness News (South Africa)
JOHANNESBURG - Despite statistics by the South African Police Services indicating a decline in gun-related crimes, the debate on gun laws and ownership in South Africa remains divided.
Varying degrees of the debate have emerged with many still opposing the easy access to guns as it has been reported that it takes only 90 days to acquire a gun license.
The issue was thrust back into the spotlight earlier this year, when Olympic and Paralympic athlete Oscar Pistorius... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Seize Over 4,000 Weapons in Angola
30 April 2013
Angola Press Agency (Luanda)
CAXITO — At least 4,483 fire-arms, among which 3,333 AKM, were collected in the northen Bengo province in the last six years, as part of the disarmament process of citizens illegally owning weapons.
According to a weekly assessment from the National Police in Bengo sent to Angop on Monday, the collection includes 23,472 ammunitions, 1,390 magazines, 340 explosive devices and 26 grenades.
The statement informs that during last week the police recorded a compulsory... (GunPolicy.org)
Yemen,Argentina,Costa Rica,Libya,Germany,United States,Brazil,Paraguay,Austria
Most Brazilian Guns Exported to US
29 April 2013
Folha de Sao Paulo
BRASILIA - The U.S., currently discussing restrictions on the sale of firearms, purchased 7.9 million guns from Brazil in the past 40 years, and 59% of those were exported during the Lula administration (2003-2010).
That is the result of a new study by the Army Command to which Folha had access through the Access to Information Act, with a detailed record of the sellers and buyers of 9.9 million revolvers, pistols, rifles and shotguns, among other weapons, exported... (GunPolicy.org)
45 Weapons Seized in Anti-Poaching Operation in Cameroon [Français]
29 April 2013
Cameroon Tribune / Camer (Belgium)
[Translated summary: 20 poachers were arrested and 45 firearms seized after an operation in south east Cameroon, while two people were injured. Officials are concerned about the effects of poaching on wildlife and the proliferation of weapons.]
20 braconniers arrêtés et 45 armes à feu saisies à l'EstC'est le bilan de l'opération conduite le ministère des Forêts et de la Faune du 15 au 26 avril.
Le bilan de l'opération coup de poing organisée par le Ministère... (GunPolicy.org)
Over 2.6 Million Ammo Rounds Destroyed in Republic of Congo
25 April 2013
Global Times (China)
More than 2.6 million rounds of unexploded ammunition have been neutralized by a non-governmental organization in Brazzaville, the capital of the Republic of Congo, to avoid a repetition of the deadly blast in the city last year.
The action was taken in Brazzaville's Mpila district, where an explosion occurred at an arms depot on March 4, 2012, the European Union (EU) said in a statement released here on Wednesday.
"The evaluation of the clearing and clean-up... (GunPolicy.org)
Africa,Oceania,Europe,Asia,United States,Americas
Study Shows Gun Ownership Doesn't Preserve Freedom, Democracy
25 April 2013
Atlantic (USA)
After League City, Texas, became the first city in the state to pass a resolution effectively nullifying federal gun regulations in February, Councilwoman Heidi Thiess, who speared the motion, shared a quote. "Gen. Isoroku Yamamoto, who was the commander of Japan's WWII Combined Fleet, was asked why he never bothered to invade the U.S. after Pearl Harbor," she remarked. "And you know what he said? 'You can't invade mainland United States. There would be a rifle behind... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenyans Worried Over Use of Pistols, Homemade Guns as Crimes Rise
17 April 2013
Capital FM (Nairobi)
NAIROBI, Kenya – A survey conducted recently has revealed an alarming level of armed robberies and other violent crimes in Nairobi.
According to the study by Security Research and Information Centre, 41 percent of crimes reported are violent robberies and residents in all parts of the city are prone to such attacks.
Inspector General David Kimaiyo welcomed the Nairobi Regional Annual Crime Observatory Report, saying it will help in facilitating stakeholders to... (GunPolicy.org)
Poland,Ukraine,Israel,Côte d'Ivoire,Bulgaria,Belarus,China,Angola,Russia
Guns Easily Available in Côte D'Ivoire Despite Embargo
16 April 2013
IRIN (UN News)
ABIDJAN - Côte d'Ivoire's recent turbulence - including the ouster of president Henri Konan Bédié in 1999, a long-running insurgency and deadly poll unrest in 2011 - has left the country awash in arms, which have contributed to human rights abuses, widespread crime and persistent insecurity.
Two years after coming to power in 2000, Laurent Gbagbo's administration faced an army mutiny, which morphed into a full-scale rebellion. In response, the government underwent a... (GunPolicy.org)
Rwanda Calls for Firearms Marking to Fight Trafficking
16 April 2013
New Times (Rwanda)
The Minister of Internal Security and Chairman of the Regional Centre on Small Arms, Sheikh Musa Fazil Harerimana, has called for firearms to be marked and recorded as means of fighting illicit arms trafficking.
Harerimana made the remarks as he opened a two-day trans-regional seminar on arms making guidelines for the Economic Community of Central Africa States (Eccas) in Kigali. The meeting, according to the minister, is an opportunity to harmonise efforts and share... (GunPolicy.org)
Algeria Authorities Intercept Arms Being Smuggled to Mali
16 April 2013
Magharebia (USA)
Algerian security forces on Saturday (April 13th) intercepted an arms shipment from Libya to terrorists in northern Mali.
Special Forces eliminated five terrorists during the operation. They reportedly belonged to al-Qaeda splinter group Movement for Tawhid and Jihad in West Africa (MUJAO) and were in charge of protecting the arms shipment.
Wakt El Djazair quoted a security source as saying that a counter-terrorism military unit, supported by two helicopters, was able... (GunPolicy.org)
At Least 19 Die in Bomb, Gun Attack on Somali Courthouse
15 April 2013
RIA Novosti (Russia)
MOSCOW - Bomb and gun attacks have left at least 19 people dead in Somali capital Mogadishu, media reported.
A total of 16 people, including nine assailants, are thought to have been killed after gunmen attacked the city's key court buildings. A car bomb later killed three people, including one attacker, as it went off on the road to the airport, the BBC reported.
Islamist militant group al-Shabab, linked to al-Qaeda, claimed responsibility for the attacks. Al-Shabab... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Police Uncover 3 Gun Factories
13 April 2013
Daily Trust (Abuja)
ASABA — Police detectives from Anambra and Delta States have uncovered arms factories in three communities in Delta State.
This is just as residents of Alizomor in Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State fled the community after the corpse of ex-Anambra deputy governor Dr. Nwike Chidi was found in the area.
Police spokesman ASP Lucky Uyabeme said the discovery came when detectives stormed the community. He, however, said no arrest has been made.
The body of... (GunPolicy.org)
Portugal,Libya,United States,Guinea-Bissau,Colombia
Alleged FARC Scheme Swapped Cocaine for West African Arms
12 April 2013
InSight Crime (Bogota)
An international police operation has dismantled a network in which Colombian rebel group the FARC allegedly attempted to exchange cocaine for weapons from the West African nation of Guinea-Bissau.
The investigation, involving US, Colombian, Portuguese, and Guinea-Bissau authorities, lasted over a year, reported EFE. Colombian police arrested two men in Bogota who are accused of serving as as the FARC's intermediaries for the West Africa-based weapons suppliers.
On... (GunPolicy.org)
Sudanese State Passes Firearms Law Requiring Citizens to Register Guns
10 April 2013
Sudan Tribune (France)
RUMBEK — The Lakes state Legislative Assembly on Wednesday passed a Firearm Bill which makes it compulsory to register all firearms and extends more powers to the state and county authorities to disarm any pastoralists who do not comply with the Bill or who are responsible for cattle raiding and other violence.
Twenty two lawmakers were absent from the parliament when the new law was passed. According to the assembly clerk, 7 MPs had been given official permission to... (GunPolicy.org)
Egypt,Liberia,Mali,Palestine,Chad,Somalia,Tunisia,Algeria,Niger
Egypt Major Recipient of Illicit Libyan Weapons: UN Report
10 April 2013
Daily News (Egypt)
The United Nations published a report on Tuesday which concludes that weapons used during the Libyan civil war against Muammar Gaddafi are being funnelled at an alarming rate to other countries in the region.
The report said these weapons have been found to be used in the recent war in Mali, the West Bank in Palestine and the ongoing Syrian civil war, with Egypt and the Sahel region receiving the most significant amounts. The report said these weapons are fuelling... (GunPolicy.org)
Tanzania Police Seize Assault Weapon, Pistols
10 April 2013
Citizen (Dar es Salaam)
DAR ES SALAAM - Police in the city have recovered three guns and 33 bullets from different locations. The weapons were reportedly to be used by suspected bandits in commiting robberies.
The firearms were recovered in a special round up carried out by police after receiving intelligence information from citizens, according to Dar es Salaam Special Zone Police Commander, Mr Suleiman Kova.
He said that one sub machine gun (SMG) was recovered at Kimbangulile area in... (GunPolicy.org)
South Africa Police Guns Seized in Raid on Gang Residence
9 April 2013
Eyewitness News (South Africa)
CAPE TOWN - Western Cape Community Safety MEC Dan Plato said on Monday an investigation has been launched to determine how police issued firearms landed up in the hands of gangsters in Lavender Hill.
Metro police officers carried out several raids in the area and other suburbs over the weekend where they confiscated illegal weapons and drugs.
Officials also seized two police firearms as well as an AK-47 with ammunition.
Plato said this was worrying.
"I am actually... (GunPolicy.org)
Concerns in Ghana Over Availability of Guns, Youth Crime
4 April 2013
Spy Ghana (Ghana)
An increasing number of young people are in possession of firearms in the Northern Region, posing an additional risk to the already volatile situation in the area.
The disturbing phenomena was highlighted at the 2012 regional celebration of the West African Security Service Association (WASSA) in Tamale last Thursday when a number of speakers made reference to it and stressed the need to take measures to combat it.
Speaking at the function, the Northern Regional... (GunPolicy.org)
Africa: Making the Arms Trade Treaty Work in Practice is Real Challenge
3 April 2013
Institute for Security Studies (South Africa)
An outcome that does not make everyone happy is the hallmark of a successful negotiation process, to paraphrase Australian Ambassador Peter Woolcott, president of the United Nations' Final Conference on the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT). He and his team certainly achieved that goal. Most states and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) agree that the treaty text does not meet the expectations that were created over the past two decades. However, mitigating this situation is... (GunPolicy.org)
China Says UN Arms Treaty Lacks Consensus
3 April 2013
South China Morning Post (Hong Kong)
There is no consensus on an international arms trade treaty, major weapons exporter China said on Wednesday, after it abstained as the UN General Assembly passed the measure by 154 votes to three.
The only votes against the first treaty on the conventional arms trade were from Syria, North Korea and Iran.
The 23 countries abstaining included Russia and China, ranked respectively as the number two and five weapons exporters by the Stockholm International Peace Research... (GunPolicy.org)
Americas,Asia,Africa,Oceania,Europe
UN Approves Global Gun Trade Treaty: NRA, Iran, N Korea, Syria Oppose
3 April 2013
Washington Post
UNITED NATIONS — The U.N. General Assembly voted overwhelmingly Tuesday to create the first treaty regulating the international arms trade, a landmark decision that imposes new constraints on the sale of conventional arms to governments and armed groups that commit war crimes, genocide and other mass atrocities.
The vote was hailed by arms-control advocates and scores of governments, including the United States, as a major step in the global effort to put in place... (GunPolicy.org)
South African Women Remain at Risk of Homicide by Their Partners
2 April 2013
News24 (Cape Town)
JOHANNESBURG - There has been no significant decrease in the rate of South African women murdered by their partners, the Medical Research Council of SA said on Tuesday.
"In South Africa, the murder of women by their partners remains a serious problem," senior researcher of the gender and health unit Naeemah Abrahams said in a statement.
According to a recent study led by Abrahams, the murder rate for women older than 14 was substantially lower in 2009 than in... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Police Order an Audit of Gun Licences
30 March 2013
Star (Kenya)
Inspector General of Police David Kimaiyo has asked for a full list of all licensed firearms across the country as police launch an audit of guns and ammunition.
The police chief has asked for the audit from the Chief Firearms Licensing Officer who keeps records of all arms. Kimaiyo yesterday said he had called for the routine audit to establish how many guns are in private hands and those in custody of security agents, including those being used by police reservists... (GunPolicy.org)
Iran,Syria,United Kingdom,Kenya,North Korea
Iran, N. Korea, Syria Block Arms Trade Treaty at Last Minute
29 March 2013
Australian (Sydney)
Iran, North Korea and Syria have held up agreement on the first global treaty on the $US80 billion ($A76.97 billion) a year conventional arms trade.
The three states twice blocked moves to adopt a treaty by consensus at the end of 10 days of arduous talks at the UN headquarters.
Kenya announced that a coalition of countries from around the world would now take the treaty straight to the 193-member UN General Assembly next week for approval. It can be passed with a two... (GunPolicy.org)
Illegal Crime Guns Causing Havoc in Tanzania say Authorities
28 March 2013
Tanzania Daily News (Dar es Salaam)
Armed robbers are out of their lair again and are busy scheming, so it seems. It was reported in the press early this week that five suspected robbers had been gunned down by police in Kagera Region.
The robbers had engaged four motor vehicles in a stick-up and were robbing passengers when the police, who had already been tipped off, ambushed them. The police killed five suspects in the ensuing shoot-out. The police recovered two sub-machine guns in the process.
They... (GunPolicy.org)
Armed Violence Provokes Ban on Gun Licensing in Uganda
27 March 2013
Monitor (Kampala)
Kampala - Police have said they have stopped licensing of guns to people and ordered private security organisations to deploy more than one security guard at business premises.
The measure comes at the backdrop of increased armed robberies in the city and its suburbs that have claimed lives of more than four prominent businessmen since the year started.
"We are calling upon private security agencies to deploy about two or more security guards at every station as this... (GunPolicy.org)
Central Africa,East Africa,Ghana
Over 2,500 Firerms Destroyed Since 2001 in Ghana
26 March 2013
Spy Ghana (Ghana)
Ghana has played a major role in stopping the illicit trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) and has destroyed over 2,500 weapons since 2001, according to the Member of Parliament for Nadowli-Kaleo Constituency, Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin.
Addressing Parliamentarians from 12 countries in Africa on the strides Ghana has made in dealing with the illegal trade in guns, Hon. Bagbin stated that Ghana is an active member of the global efforts to control illicit... (GunPolicy.org)
Drunk Kenyan Cop Threatens Citizens with Gun
26 March 2013
Star (Kenya)
A police officer who was allegedly harassing members of the public in Siakago town last weekend by cocking his gun and threatening to shoot them is facing disciplinary measures.
Reliable sources told the star that the officer who was armed with an AK47 rifle was guarding the Cooperative Bank in Siakago town when he began harassing members of public.
The sources said he would now and then sneak into a nearby bar and drink beer before going back to his station.... (GunPolicy.org)
Germany,Mexico,United Kingdom,Ghana,Oceania,Europe,Asia,Americas,Africa
Arms Trade Treaty Talks Enter Stormy Final Round
26 March 2013
Rappler / Agence France Presse
More than 100 countries complained Monday that talks on a conventional arms trade treaty had gone "backwards" from a vow to conclude a strong accord on the $80 billion a year trade.
The major western powers, who expressed confidence that an accord could be reached, face tough criticism over the treaty as talks at the UN headquarters entered the final straight.
A group representing 103 countries blasted the latest text as a step "backwards."
A statement by the 103,... (GunPolicy.org)
Oceania,Asia,Europe,Africa,Americas,United States
NGOs Slam New Arms Trade Treaty Draft, Blame US for Changes
25 March 2013
Reuters
Human rights groups on Monday sharply criticized the latest draft of what could become the first international treaty to regulate the $70 billion global conventional arms trade, accusing the United States and others of pushing to dilute it.
Several Western delegations, however, played down the complaints of groups like Oxfam, Amnesty International, the World Council of Churches and Control Arms, saying the latest draft showed progress, though improvements were clearly... (GunPolicy.org)
Guns and Family Violence: How Many Tragedies Does It Take?
25 March 2013
al Jazeera, Opinion
On December 1, 2012, NFL linebacker Jovan Belcher shot and killed his girlfriend, Kasandra Perkins. He then drove to Arrowhead Stadium and then shot and killed himself in front of his two coaches and the general manager of his team, the Kansas City Chiefs. On February 14, 2013, South African track star Oscar Pistorius shot and killed his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp through the bathroom door of his home. Two well-known athletes, two horrifying acts. While we don't know... (GunPolicy.org)
Oceania,Europe,Africa,Asia,Americas
Conflicts of Interest Plague Arms Trade Treaty Talks
22 March 2013
Inter Press Service News Agency
The U.N. organ tasked with maintaining international peace and security harbours a serious conflict at its core.
The Security Council's five permanent members (P5) – United States, Russia, China, the United Kingdom and France – along with Germany, are the world's six leading arms exporters, often shipping weapons used to perpetuate violence across the globe.
Meanwhile, over 150 member states have gathered at U.N. headquarters, from Mar. 18-28, to negotiate an Arms... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Gangs Stealing Weapons from Police, Terrorising Citizens
22 March 2013
New Vision (Kampala)
The Police have listed over a dozen criminal gangs that are terrorising residents in and around Kampala.
The media has recently been awash with reports of daring thugs raiding police stations and making off with weapons, killing or injuring security personnel and civilians in addition to rampant robberies of money and property.
Recently thugs raided Mpala police station on Entebbe road and stole a gun and ammunition. Last week a gang raided the suburb of Bweyogerere... (GunPolicy.org)
Sudan Authorities Give Citizens a Week to Register Guns or Face Jail
22 March 2013
Sudan Tribune (France)
Rumbek — Lakes state's caretaker military governor, Maj-Gen Matur Chut Dhuol, has given owners of guns in Rumbek town seven days to register their firearms or face three years in prison.
The governor first announced the policy in February shortly after he was appointed, but until Friday he had not announced a deadline for the process.
Dhuol's initial call for registration was ignored by the majority of officials carrying arms in Rumbek.
Governor Dhuol registered... (GunPolicy.org)
Two Arrested Over Illegal Manufacture and Sale of Guns in Ghana
21 March 2013
Vibe Ghana
Prosper Adewornu alias Dzakpasu Kofi 50, a Blacksmith and his son Safari Daworlo 21, Auto Mechanic and Blacksmith, have been arrested for allegedly manufacturing and selling guns and gun parts at Kakadedzi on Ghana-Togo border.
Two locally manufactured pistols, seven old locally made shotguns and two foreign shotguns, six BB-short-barrel gun cartridges and 39 empty cartridges were retrieved from them.
A grinder, metal boring machine, hammers, a newly made shotgun... (GunPolicy.org)
Philippines,South East Asia,Oceania,Europe,Asia,Americas,Africa
Arms Trade Treaty or What? - Opinion
21 March 2013
Philippine Star, Opinion
In the next week or so, the members of the United Nations have an opportunity to agree an historic Treaty that would make a lasting difference to people across the world. It's not front-page news most of the time, but the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) is within our grasp — and, with it, comes a chance to make a major contribution to the security of humankind. It will help to ensure that the uncontrolled movement of arms no longer threatens the security and prosperity of... (GunPolicy.org)
3,100 Illicit Small Arms and Light Weapons Destroyed in Tanzania
20 March 2013
IPP Media
German Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) and the Tanzanian Police have agreed to strengthen their cooperation in the fight against organised crime and international terrorism.
"The fight against international terrorism, piracy, organized crime and also everyday crime remains the essential task of the security authorities throughout the world … therefore, international cooperation is crucial …," stated the German Ambassador Klaus-Peter Brandes.
He emphasised... (GunPolicy.org)
Romania,Burkina Faso,Poland,Russia,Latvia,Tunisia,Guinea,Senegal,Bulgaria,China,Africa,Europe,Côte d'Ivoire
Arms Proliferation and Abuse Shatter Communities in Côte d'Ivoire - AI
20 March 2013
Amnesty International (London)
Reckless and illegal arms supplies from Europe, Africa and China to the warring parties in Côte d'Ivoire over the past decade continue to fuel grave human rights abuses and violent crime in the country, Amnesty International said in a detailed report launched at the United Nations (UN) headquarters.
The 33-page report, Communities shattered by arms proliferation and abuse in Côte d'Ivoire, documents how a handful of states and a network of multinational arms... (GunPolicy.org)
Activist Urges Nigeria Federal Govt to Commence Small Arms Buyback
20 March 2013
Daily Times (Nigeria)
An Onitsha-based activist, Mr Emeka Umeagbalasi, has urged the Federal Government to commence arms and ammunition buy-back in the country.
Umeagbalasi, Chairman, International Society for Civil Liberties and the Rule of Law, made the call in Onitsha, Anambra State, on Tuesday.
He said that the Federal Government should come out with a policy to exchange these small arms surrendered by anyone with money.
Umeagbalasi was reacting to the alleged proliferation of small... (GunPolicy.org)
Germany,United Kingdom,France,Mexico,Oceania,Europe,Asia,Americas,Africa,China,Russia,United States
Armed Violence Kills 66,000 Women and Girls Each Year
20 March 2013
New Zealand Herald, Associated Press
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki Moon has urged the world's nations to agree on a strong UN treaty to regulate the multibillion-dollar global arms trade in the next two weeks, saying it will save lives and make it more difficult for warlords, organised criminals and terrorists to obtain weapons.
Hopes of reaching agreement on what would be a landmark treaty were dashed last July when the United States said it needed more time to consider the proposed accord - a... (GunPolicy.org)
Somalia: Unlicensed Guns Outlawed, Owners Required to Register
19 March 2013
Sabahi (Washington, DC)
Galgadud regional authorities on Monday (March 18th) arrested nine people for illegal possession of firearms, UN-funded Radio Bar-Kulan reported.
The suspects were arrested in the Marer Gur, Ina Mad and Gadon villages and will soon be charged in court with breaking regional regulations, said Dusamareb security boss Farhan Moalim Ali.
Ali said the crackdown on illegal gun ownership will continue and urged locals to support the administration's security mission by... (GunPolicy.org)
Oceania,Europe,Asia,Americas,Africa
Is a Global Arms Trade Treaty possible? - Video
19 March 2013
Inside Story, al Jazeera, Video
Human Rights groups say one person is killed every minute because of armed violence, through conflict and crime, but no globally agreed standards exist to regulate the international trade in arms, a trade in dangerous and deadly products, designed to kill and... (GunPolicy.org)
Congo (DRC),Zimbabwe,Mozambique,Angola,Zambia,Africa
Zambia Calling for a 'Bullet-Proof' Arms Trade Treaty
18 March 2013
Times of Zambia
TODAY (March 18, 2013) will be a crunch day of epic proportions when the United Nations Organisation (UN) convenes at its New York Headquarters to start negotiations to conclude an Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) that has the potential to forever regulate the hitherto unregulated trade in conventional weapons.
The global trade in conventional weapons - from warships and battle tanks to fighter jets and machine guns - remains poorly regulated. No internationally agreed... (GunPolicy.org)
Africa,Americas,Asia,Europe,Oceania,United States,Russia,Italy,Germany,Brazil,Switzerland,Israel,Austria,South Korea,Belgium,Spain,Turkey,Norway,Canada,United Kingdom,Australia,France,Pakistan,Yemen,Honduras,El Salvador,Jamaica
Fact and Figures: Global Trade in Small Arms
18 March 2013
al Jazeera
Diplomats from around the world have gathered at the UN for talks on an international arms trade treaty, in an effort to stop the sale of illegal conventional arms.
Similar talks held last July failed, mainly due to the objections of the US and Russia, the world's two largest arms exporters.
Al Jazeera has compiled a list of facts related to the global production and trading of small arms.
1. Authorised international transfers of small arms, light weapons, their... (GunPolicy.org)
39,880 Militants' Firearms, Ammunition Handed Over to Nigerian Army
17 March 2013
Vanguard (Lagos)
ENUGU — The 39,880 assorted firearms and ammunition recovered from former militants in the Niger Delta by the inter-agency taskforce set up by the Federal Government have been handed over to the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army.
A breakdown of the arms handed over on Saturday at the 82 Division's parade ground included the following: 482 automatic arms, 20,132 ammunition, 295 magazines and 18,971 locally made guns.
The General Officer Commanding the 82 Division... (GunPolicy.org)
China,Russia,Oceania,Europe,Asia,Americas,Africa,United States
UN Revives Effort on Pact to Regulate Arms Trade
17 March 2013
New York Times
In the shadow of the re-energized gun-control debate in the United States, negotiators at the United Nations will reconvene this week to try to reach a final agreement on a treaty to regulate the global trade in conventional weapons, a lucrative business that rights groups call the main source of illicit arms fueling deadly conflicts around the world.
"I am confident that member states will overcome their differences and muster the political will needed to agree on... (GunPolicy.org)
United States,Oceania,Europe,Asia,Americas,Africa
US Gun Lobby Stepping Up Its Opposition to UN Arms Trade Treaty
17 March 2013
Guardian (UK)
The National Rifle Association is stepping up its opposition to a UN treaty aimed at halting the illicit trade of guns into conflict zones, after months of silence on the issue believed to be due to its focus on domestic gun control.
Human rights campaigners said that the resurgence of the NRA's campaign was designed to "stir up anti-UN panic" ahead of the UN conference on the Arms Trade Treaty, which opens on Monday in New York. The Obama administration indicated in a... (GunPolicy.org)
Russia,China,Oceania,Europe,Asia,Americas,Africa,United States
NRA Opposes UN Arms Trade Treaty
16 March 2013
Washington Post
The National Rifle Association, which is battling a raft of gun control measures on Capitol Hill, also has an international fight on its hand as it gears up to oppose a U.N. treaty designed to restrict the flow of arms to conflict zones.
Negotiations open Monday in New York on the Arms Trade Treaty, which would require countries to determine whether weapons they sell would be used to commit serious human rights violations, terrorism or transnational organized... (GunPolicy.org)
Oceania,Europe,Asia,Americas,Africa
Global Gun Grabbers Team with UN to Prep African Countries for Arms Trade Treaty
15 March 2013
Fox News (USA)
A week before it opens a treaty conference to impose worldwide limitations on arms sales, the United Nations co-hosted and paid for a series of meetings involving 48 African nations and an anti-gun group that espouses much greater national and international control of firearms, including registration of small arms and ammunition.
The co-host of the gathering in the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa was a multinational "civil society" network known as IANSA, which calls... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Police Arrest Alleged Arms Supplier in Delta
15 March 2013
Vanguard (Lagos)
WARRI — Police have arrested a community leader, who allegedly armed youths from Orugbene community in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State with weapons, including guns and cutlasses, to attack villagers in Asenkiri, a neighbouring community, and forcefully seized their motor-saws and other equipment, penultimate week.
The alleged arms supplier was nabbed following investigations by security agencies into the incident.
An Oborotu community leader, Chief Evans... (GunPolicy.org)
Strict Gun Control Is Long Overdue in Uganda
14 March 2013
Observer (Kampala), Editorial
The minister of Defence, Dr Crispus Kiyonga, has promised stricter gun control in the aftermath of a shooting incident in Bombo town council in which 10 people were killed.
Kiyonga told Parliament on Wednesday that security organs are to review their discipline and gun control measures in a bid to achieve institutional tight control on firearms. This is long overdue as there have been far too many shooting incidents in Uganda involving armed security officers over the... (GunPolicy.org)
Dangerous Weapons Bill Adopted in South Africa to Curb Violence
13 March 2013
Global Times (China), Xinhua
The Portfolio Committee on Police on Tuesday adopted the Dangerous Weapons Bill as South Africa is moving to curb rising violence.
The bill will repeal all legislation dealing with dangerous weapons. There are currently five different pieces of legislation that deal with dangerous weapons, including the Dangerous Weapons Act of 1982.
The committee called on police to effectively implement the Dangerous Weapons Bill, which will also give powers to the police to arrest... (GunPolicy.org)
India,Egypt,Syria,Russia,United States,Oceania,Europe,Asia,Americas,Africa
Urgent Call for Tighter Rules on International Arms Trade - Oxfam
12 March 2013
Oxfam International (Oxford), Media release
Draft Arms Trade Treaty text littered with loopholes which need fixing urgently to save lives
More than 325,000 people are estimated to have lost their lives through armed violence since negotiations for a treaty to regulate the global arms trade for the first time ground to a halt in July last year, say Oxfam and Saferworld, part of the Control Arms Coalition.
The Control Arms Coalition calls on world leaders to urgently adopt robust rules on international transfers... (GunPolicy.org)
The Need for Improved Firearms Control in South Africa - Analysis
11 March 2013
Institute for Security Studies (Tshwane/Pretoria)
In his affidavit before the court, South African 2012 Paralympic gold medallist Oscar Pistorius stated that he kept a 9mm pistol underneath his bed because he was scared of criminals.
Following the events in the early hours of 14 February 2013 that saw him fatally shoot his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp, he now faces charges of murder. This is not the first such case. In 2009 Johannesburg homeowner Warren Voster accidentally killed his domestic worker's 12-year-old... (GunPolicy.org)
Read More: Institute for Security Studies (Tshwane/Pretoria)
Oceania,Europe,Asia,Americas,Africa,Nepal
Nepal Decides to Endorse UN Small Arms Treaty
9 March 2013
Xinhua
KATHMANDU - With the objective of controlling the illegal trade of small arms like pistol, Nepal has decided to endorse the UN small arms convention which is being discussed among the UN members at present.
"Nepal supports the bid to regulate and control the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons," the Kathmandu Post quoted a government official, as saying, on Saturday.
"It is of prime importance that the small arms do not reach the non-state actors, who may... (GunPolicy.org)
South Africa: Port Elizabeth Police Destroy Over 2,000 Guns
9 March 2013
News24 (Cape Town), South African Press Association
PORT ELIZABETH - A total of 2 065 firearms were destroyed in Port Elizabeth on Saturday morning, Eastern Cape police said.
"At least 848 of these have been voluntarily surrendered. The other 1 217 were confiscated by the state and had been used in criminal activities," said Lieutenant-Colonel Sibongile Soci.
The firearms included rifles, shotguns and handguns.
Nearly 40 000 firearms have been destroyed by police in the province since 2004, said... (GunPolicy.org)
Read More: News24 (Cape Town), South African Press Association
United States,Oceania,Europe,Asia,Americas,Africa
US Gun Lobby's Silence on UN Arms Treaty Surprises Gun Control Campaigners
9 March 2013
Guardian (UK)
The National Rifle Association is so tied up fighting new gun restrictions in the wake of the Newtown shooting that it has failed so far to mount its expected lobbying blitz against a new international arms control control treaty.
With just a few weeks to go until the world's first Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) is put to a final vote at a UN conference in New York campaigners have voiced surprise at the NRA's relative silence on the issue. Until the Newtown tragedy, in which... (GunPolicy.org)
Africa,Asia,Oceania,Europe,Canada,Americas
Canadian Gun-Control Groups Question Inclusion of Gun Advocate in Arms-Trade Talks
9 March 2013
Edmonton Journal (Alberta)
OTTAWA — Gun-control advocates and opposition parties want to know why the Harper government has consistently included a prominent firearms advocate in Canadian delegations at international arms-control talks in recent years.
They believe Canadian Shooting Sports Association (CSSA) president Steve Torino's presence alongside Canadian diplomats is tied to what they say are Canadian efforts to weaken a new Arms Trade Treaty being negotiated at the United... (GunPolicy.org)
UN Security Council Opts for a Partial Lift of Somalia Arms Embargo
8 March 2013
Garowe Online (Garowe), Opinion
The UN Security Council in a surprisingly unanimous vote opted for a partial lift of the 21 year old -virtually non-existent - arms embargo that dawned on Somalia after the breakout of civil war. Since then, a steady of flow of small arms has been funnelled into the conflict prone country despite the Security Council having knowledge of the proliferation of small arms.
Knowing that, will that stop the conflict in the war torn country - who was able to shrewdly import... (GunPolicy.org)
Europe,China,Asia,Americas,Oceania,Kenya,Cuba,Côte d'Ivoire,Africa,Central America,Russia,United States
Women Explain Why an Arms Trade Treaty Can Save Many Lives
7 March 2013
Amnesty International (London), Media release
It is estimated at least half a million people are killed with guns every year and on average a further 200,000 men, women and children die as an indirect result of armed conflicts and violence that are frequently fuelled by the uncontrolled flow of small arms.
And for every person that is killed in an armed conflict, many more are injured and tortured, raped, abused, forcibly disappeared, taken hostage or displaced. Even more have their access to food, water, shelter,... (GunPolicy.org)
More Than 100 Firearms Seized in Kuando Kubango, Angola [Francais]
4 March 2013
Angola Press Agency (Luanda)
[Translated summary: 104 firearms and 750 ammunition seized in 2012 in the framework of the Disarmament Programme in the province of Kuando Kubango, Angola.]
MENONGUE (Angola) - 104 armes à feu et 750 munitions diverses ont été récupérées en 2012 dans la province de Kuando Kubango (extrême-sud-est) dans le cadre du programme de désarmement de la population.
Le bilan annuel rendu public jeudi à l'occasion des 37 ans de la police angolaise indique que... (GunPolicy.org)
Sudanese Officials Call for Citizens to Disarm Voluntarily
2 March 2013
Sudan Tribune (France)
Bentiu — Local leaders in Unity state called for a new round of voluntarily civilian disarmament at a two-day conference in Bentiu last week to address the issue of violent crime and cattle raiding.
The conference, facilitated by the Conflict Mitigation and Stabilization Initiative (CMSI) brought chiefs, executives directors, civil society groups and police officers from Unity state's nine counties together to discuss how to persuade civilians to handover illegal... (GunPolicy.org)
Ghana Officials say Guns from Cote D'Ivoire, Offer Rewards
21 February 2013
Ghanaian Chronicle
The Bawku Divisional Police Commander, ACP Kweku Buadu-Pepra, says most the sophisticated weapons in Bawku came from neighbouring Cote d' Ivoire during the election conflict that erupted in that country in 2002.
The Bawku Municipal Security Committee (MUSEC) recently announced a monetary reward package of GHA¢3,000 for anyone with credible information that could lead to the security agencies retrieving weapons from civilians in the area.
The package also included... (GunPolicy.org)
China,Africa,Côte d'Ivoire,Somalia,Angola,South Africa,Sudan,Zimbabwe,Kenya
Unknown Quantities of Chinese Arms in Africa a Concern
21 February 2013
Star (Kenya), Opinion
Much is being written and said in the media and academic circles about China's increasing engagement with Africa on many economic and other fronts.
Some see this as benefiting Africa; others as detrimental to the real needs of African countries and peoples. Some critics have used phrases like "the second scramble for Africa" and "re-colonization of Africa" to describe the new development. The debate goes on.
Yet, there is one subject that has not received the serious... (GunPolicy.org)
Trinidad & Tobago,South Africa
Trinidad Official Thinks Gun Laws Don't Go Far Enough
20 February 2013
Guardian (Trinidad and Tobago)
As the Government battles unbridled gun violence, national security adviser Gary Griffith says guns don't kill people, people kill people. On Friday, Olympic blade runner Oscar Pistorius appeared before the court in South Africa charged with the murder of his 29-year-old girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp who had been shot four times with Pistorius' licensed gun.
In South Africa where levels of crime are extremely high, many private citizens have licensed guns. But the... (GunPolicy.org)
South Africa's Oscar Pistorius Applied for Six Restricted Guns
19 February 2013
Independent (South Africa)
Pretoria - Oscar Pistorius applied for six separate firearm licences in January. Less than a month later, he stands accused of fatally shooting his model girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp.
The killing took place during the early hours of Thursday at his luxury home in Pretoria.
On Tuesday, as the Paralympian prepares to show compelling reasons why he should be released on bail, The Star can reveal that Pistorius applied for licences for the following firearms:
- A Maverick... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Crime Falls in South Africa After Tougher Laws Introduced
19 February 2013
South Africa Info
The arrest of Olympic and Paralympic athlete Oscar Pistorius following the shooting of his girlfriend, model Reeva Steenkamp, at Pistorius' home in Pretoria last week has focused considerable attention, in the local and international media, on gun laws and gun ownership in South Africa.
In 2004, new legislation came into force in South Africa, in the form of the Firearms Control Act of 2000, that brought in significantly tougher controls on the ownership, possession... (GunPolicy.org)
Russia,Nigeria,Madagascar,Guinea
Nigeria Charges Russian 'Gun Dealers' for Smuggling
19 February 2013
BBC News
Fifteen Russian sailors have been charged in a court in Nigeria's main city, Lagos, with illegally bringing weapons into the country.
The crew of the MV Myre Seadiver were denied bail by the High Court, pending a final ruling on Monday.
The Nigerian navy had seized the ship, owned by Moscow-based security firm Moran, last October.
Moran has said the ship had permission to carry arms and had stopped in Lagos to change crew.
The vessel had been travelling from... (GunPolicy.org)
South Africa Athlete Case Shows Risk of Having Guns at Home
18 February 2013
Guardian (UK)
There is a rule in screenwriting that if you introduce a gun into a scene, at some point you must use it. The rule applies to real life too. That's how Reeva Steenkamp lost her life. A gun appeared in her story, and she got shot dead. Regardless of the circumstances, when guns are near people, they kill people.
I know the gun fraternity will say that it was Oscar Pistorius who pulled the trigger, and not the rest of the gun community out there. But that's what... (GunPolicy.org)
Egypt HR Group Worried Over Arms Imports for Police
17 February 2013
Egyptian Organization for Human Rights (Cairo), Media release
Egyptian Organization for Human Rights (EOHR) expresses worry for the official approval of General Mohamed Ibrahim, the Egyptian Minister of Interior, to import 100,000 guns for arming the police soldiers and non-commissioned officers to face the outlaws. The import approval was given on February 16, 2013.
Recently, the policemen went on a protest against the Egyptian Ministry of Interior calling for arming and enhancement of working environment following murdering a... (GunPolicy.org)
Tanzania Celebrates Gun Destruction in East Africa
17 February 2013
Tanzania Daily News (Dar Es Salaam)
The Vice-President, Dr Mohamed Gharib Bilal, has said that recovery of more than 500,000 small arms and light weapons presently in wrong hands in the East African region would be possible through shared information among the member states.
Speaking at the destruction of illicit small arms and light weapons, the event held at Ukonga Prisons Ground on the outskirts of Dar es Salaam, and witnessed by delegates to the East African Community (EAC) Joint Meeting of the... (GunPolicy.org)
Finland,United States,European Union,Germany,Switzerland,Russia,South Africa,Mexico
Registry Shows Germans Fourth in World For Guns
17 February 2013
Local (Germany)
Figures compiled for Germany's new National Weapons Registry reveal that there are 5.4 million legally owned guns in the country, making it the world's fourth most-armed nation per capita.
Der Spiegel magazine reported on Sunday that the state of Bavaria topped the list with 1.1 million, followed by North Rhine-Westphalia with 1 million and Baden-Württemberg with 700,000.
The new national gun register bundles together the data from over 500 local authorities, which... (GunPolicy.org)
How Strict Are South African Gun Laws?
15 February 2013
Time (USA)
The paralympian Oscar Pistorius has been charged with murder by a South African court following the death of his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp, from gunshot wounds at his home within a gated Pretoria housing estate. The woman sustained wounds to her head and the upper body, and was reported to have been shot four times. A 9mm pistol was recovered from the scene.
According to Gunpolicy.org, there are just under 6 million licensed firearms in South Africa, which has a... (GunPolicy.org)
South Africa Gun Culture in Spotlight After Athlete's Murder Charge
14 February 2013
Telegraph (UK), Video
About one citizen in every 20 owns a registered firearm and millions more weapons circulate illegally. The gnawing fear of violent crime is such that most houses are surrounded by walls and barbed wire, often electrified to deter intruders.
The wealthier neighbourhoods of Pretoria and Johannesburg are patrolled by armed guards from private security firms, who can be summoned at the touch of a panic button.
Even so, many people opt to live – like Oscar Pistorius –... (GunPolicy.org)
Murder-Accused South African Athlete 'Enjoys' Target Shooting
14 February 2013
Guardian (UK), Video
Oscar Pistorius the Paralympic star and inspiration to millions around the world, was contemplating his future from a police cell on Thursday night after being charged with murdering his girlfriend.
In a drama that stunned South Africa and admirers abroad, Pistorius allegedly fired four bullets into Reeva Steenkamp's head, chest and arm at his home in the capital, Pretoria, in the early hours of Thursday morning.
The life of the glamorous athlete, known as the Blade... (GunPolicy.org)
New 'Dangerous Weapons' Law Considered by South Africa Govt
12 February 2013
Money Web (South Africa)
A draft bill which seeks to empower police officers to arrest people carrying dangerous weapons during public gatherings came before Parliament on Tuesday.
Addressing the portfolio committee on police, Police Minister Nathi Mthethwa said the Dangerous Weapons Bill would outlaw possession of any weapon, object, or replica in instances where there was an intention to use it for an unlawful purpose.
"The bill seeks to prohibit the carrying of firearms and objects which... (GunPolicy.org)
Illicit Gun Trade in Mogadishu, Somalia: A Lucrative Business
12 February 2013
al Jazeera
MOGADISHU, Somalia - The car barely came to a stop when a hand softly knocked at the tinted passenger seat window. The window rolled down, revealing a tall, skinny figure wearing a half-buttoned, baggy polyester shirt, a red sarong, and pink sandals - and holding a rusty AK-47 in his left hand.
"Seven-hundred fifty dollars," he said in a firm voice, barely making eye contact, before dropping the fully loaded gun onto this reporter's lap. Another 10 men came rushing... (GunPolicy.org)
Iran,Yemen,North Korea,Libya,Somalia,Africa
UN Monitors See Weapons in Somalia From Yemen, Iran
10 February 2013
Reuters
As the United States pushes for an end to the U.N. arms embargo on Somalia, U.N. monitors are reporting that Islamist militants in the Horn of Africa nation are receiving arms from distribution networks linked to Yemen and Iran, diplomats told Reuters.
The U.N. Security Council's sanctions monitoring team's concerns about Iranian and Yemeni links to arms supplies for al Shabaab militants come as Yemen is asking Tehran to stop backing armed groups on Yemeni soil. Last... (GunPolicy.org)
Tanzania Govt Considers Allowing Gun Ownership in Zanzibar
8 February 2013
Tanzania Daily News (Dar es Salaam)
DODOMA — The government will look into the possibility of people in Zanzibar to own firearms but the matter will be worked out carefully to study its legal status and other various implications.
The Deputy Minister for Home Affairs, Mr Pereila Ame Silima, told the Parliament that according to the law, the Firearms Decree Cap section 165, Zanzibaris are not allowed to own firearms except for security organs.
He said due to the fact that normal civilians in the Isles... (GunPolicy.org)
Critics Worried About Failing Disarmament Efforts in Kenya
6 February 2013
Capital FM (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — With less than a month to go until Kenya's general election, analysts are warning that widespread illegal gun ownership presents real risks to security. Government efforts to disarm the population have been ineffective, they say.
The warnings come after a series of violent incidents, particularly between pastoral and farming communities fighting over water, grazing rights and other resources.
Clashes between the Orma and Pokomo groups in the Tana Delta... (GunPolicy.org)
South Africa Police Destroy Over 3,000 Guns, Admit Losing 1,200
5 February 2013
Eyewitness News (South Africa)
JOHANNESBURG - At least 31,000 knives and more than 3,000 guns were destroyed by police in Vereeniging on Tuesday.
The weapons were seized from criminals in Gauteng over the past two years, as part of the Operation Duty Calls campaign.
The weapons were packed in white bags at the Arcelor Metal Plant in Vereeniging.
A giant electric magnate liftted the weapons up to the brim of a 10-metre tall smelter, into which they would later be thrown into.
Once the weapons have... (GunPolicy.org)
Audit Demanded as Gun Licence Corruption Alleged in South Africa
5 February 2013
News24 (Cape Town)
JOHANNESBURG - A probe into a former Gauteng police brigadier over alleged firearm licences corruption underlines the need for a forensic audit, Gun Free SA said on Tuesday.
Spokesperson Adele Kirsten said such an audit should include all firearm licences issued in the past few years.
"We have no confidence in the registry and are critical, especially over the last two to three years, of whether all those [who received licences] actually fit the criteria," she... (GunPolicy.org)
Official Urges South Sudan to Disarm in New Campaign
4 February 2013
Voice of America
AWEIL, South Sudan — The head of South Sudan's Bureau for Small Arms Control has called for a nationwide effort to drastically reduce the number of firearms in the country, saying a "gun-free society" is key to stability in the fledgling nation.
"It is absolutely fundamental for all of us – for communities, for the government, for religious leaders, for traditional leaders, for you and everybody - to ensure we live in a peaceful environment, a gun-free society.... (GunPolicy.org)
Western Europe,Sudan,South Africa,Colombia,Finland,Estonia,United States
13 Key Questions and Answers about US Gun Violence
4 February 2013
Atlantic (USA)
How much gun violence is there in the U.S.?
There were 8,583 homicides by firearms in 2011, out of 12,664 homicides total, according to the FBI. This means that more than two-thirds of homicides involve a firearm. 6,220 of those homicides by firearm (72%) are known to have involved a handgun.
It's worth noting that violent crime rates of all types have been steadily decreasing since the early 1990s. No one is quite sure what is causing this decrease, though there are... (GunPolicy.org)
Political Aides in Kenya Accused of Misusing Guns
31 January 2013
Star (Kenya)
Detectives are investigating alleged threats and misuse of firearms by aides to some politicians in Mombasa County.
Coast provincial police boss Aggrey Adoli said his office had received complaints over misuse of arms which had caused a major security threat during campaigns.
"We want to establish if the bodyguards who have been brandishing pistols and shooting in the air in public places have genuine license to carry the firearms," said Adoli.
A senior police... (GunPolicy.org)
Chile,Brazil,Germany,Libya,Turkey,Denmark,Sweden,Canada
Critics Say German Report on Weapons Exports Reveals Little
30 January 2013
Deutsche Welle
Critics says the government's report on arms exports lacks transparency: exporting companies are not named, and government sales are merely summarized. Yet the government claims it's in-depth and detailed.
How is it that time and again military equipment "made in Germany" shows up in war zones, despite German government claims that it handles its weapon exports "restrictively" and that it maintains a broad ban on exports to countries with questionable track records for... (GunPolicy.org)
Angola Authorities Support Crackdown on Illegal Gun Possession
30 January 2013
Angola Press Agency (Luanda)
Luanda — The Attorney-General, João Maria de Sousa, has defended the application of severe punitive measures on individuals found in possession of illegal firearms.
João Maria de Sousa has defended this stance at the session that discussed, in specialty, the State Budget Draft for 2013, with the coordination of the 1st and 10th Commissions of the National Assembly.
The magistrate said that this measure is justified by the fact that the country has recorded a high... (GunPolicy.org)
Army Thwarts Attempt to Smuggle Arms into Egypt
30 January 2013
Aswat Masriya (Cairo)
Egypt's armed forces were able to successfully thwart an attempt to smuggle arms into Egypt from the western border shared with Libya on Wednesday.
The border-forces confiscated seven sacks that contained 47 machine guns among other arms, reported the official page of Egypt's army spokesman.
The defendants were referred to a prosecutor to act appropriately in accordance with the... (GunPolicy.org)
Ghanaian, Nigerian Suspects Caught Allegedly Smuggling Guns
30 January 2013
This Day (Lagos)
It was a perfect façade, so they thought. Who could have suspected that a couple riding in a neat-looking Mercedes Benz car was not what they pretended to be. To an ordinary onlooker, they were mere international travellers, perhaps heading to Nigeria on a pleasure or a business trip.
However, the vigilance of a police patrol team uncovered their evil intention. The duo of Mr. Daniel Ofori, a Ghanaian and his Nigerian counterpart, Ms. Olufumolayo Adeyemo, were nothing... (GunPolicy.org)
Tunisia, Algeria, Libya Work to End Gun Trafficking [Français]
29 January 2013
Jeune Afrique (Paris) / Agence France Presse
[Translated summary: Special forces have been deployed to guard Tunisian oil and gas installations after workers were kidnapped. Tunisia, Algeria and Libya have signed as agreement to address increased trafficking of weapons and other items.]
Dans le centre du pays, à Kasserine, deux agents des forces tunisiennes ont été blessés lors de heurts avec des jihadistes présumés dans la nuit du lundi 28 au mardi 29 janvier. Des forces spéciales sont déployées depuis... (GunPolicy.org)
Mali,Libya,United States,West Africa,Niger
Internationalist Blog: How Libyan Weapons Fueled Mali's Violence
29 January 2013
Council on Foreign Relations, Blog
The violence that has plagued once-stable Mali since late 2011 should have come as no surprise to Western governments, for it is a direct function of NATO's Libyan intervention. By adopting a "light footprint" approach in Libya, the alliance unwittingly contributed to a security vacuum that allowed countless weapons to stream out of Libya and fuel insurgency, extremism, and crime in neighboring countries. One of these countries was Mali, where the flood of weapons from... (GunPolicy.org)
