Top of PageGun Policy News
Firearm violence, gun control and small arms
Officials Seize 8 Imitation Guns Illegally Imported to Malaysia
19 June 2013
Borneo Post
IPOH - Perak Customs seized eight imitation firearms which were imported without permit, at the General Post Office here on Saturday.
State Customs Department director Datuk Mohd Nasir Said said during an inspection carried out by a Customs team at about noon, they seized among others an imitation M16 gun, MP5, air rifle, Glock and automatic Colt 45 pistols.
"The five high quality imitation firearms were estimated to be worth RM2,043.90 and duties involved amounted to... (GunPolicy.org)
Malay Officials say Illegal Airsoft Guns Easily Available Online
19 June 2013
Star (Malaysia)
PETALING JAYA - Airsoft guns are fast gaining popularity in Malaysia, especially among those who enjoy tactical wargames.
Airsoft weapons are new generation BB (bird bullet) guns, a type of air-powered gun designed to shoot projectiles.
The AEG (airsoft electric gun) and accessories are sold together with other military-like gears and tactical equipment that come complete with holsters and military-like outfits including boots.
They can be easily bought online... (GunPolicy.org)
Philippines Electoral Gun Ban Ends, Over 3,000 Arrested for Violations
12 June 2013
Philippine Star / ABS-CBN News (Manila)
MANILA, Philippines - Gun holders with permit to carry firearms outside residence (PTCFOR) can bring their guns outside their homes tomorrow as the gun ban imposed by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) ends at midnight tonight.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) said the gun ban, which took effect last Jan. 13, will end at 11:59 p.m. tonight, as provided for under the Comelec Resolution No. 9561-A as part of the mid-term elections last May 13.
PNP spokesman Chief... (GunPolicy.org)
Priests in Philippines Against New Law Allowing Them to Carry Guns
6 June 2013
Gulf News (Dubai)
Manila - Catholic priests have voiced their reaction against a new law that has allowed them to arm themselves against attackers, adding it is contrary to their belief that peace not violence is needed in this world, a Catholic website said.
"Priests are supposed to be men of peace, not of war. Our Lord said: 'he who lives by the sword will die by the sword. We should not counter violence with violence." Bishop Jose Oliveros of suburban Malolos said in a statement... (GunPolicy.org)
Six Arrested in US for Illegally Exporting Guns to Thailand
5 June 2013
Nation (Bangkok)
US authorities have arrested and indicted a Thai woman residing residing in Berkeley, California, and five others for illegally exported restricted firearm parts from the US to Thailand, US federal prosecutors said Monday.
US media quoted US Attorney's Office as saying that Supanee Saenguthai, 35, a Thai citizen is one of six people who were arrested over the weekend for conspiring and then attempting to violate the Arms Control Export Act.
Five additional defendants... (GunPolicy.org)
Philippines Passes Tough New Gun Law
3 June 2013
Borneo Post
MANILA - Philippine President Benigno Aquino has signed a law making it harder for private individuals to own firearms following a series of high-profile deaths this year, a government spokeswoman said yesterday.
Under the law signed last week, those seeking to buy firearms will have to undergo drug and psychological tests and should not have a criminal record or pending court cases.
They will also have to show proof of income as well as a valid tax return and secure... (GunPolicy.org)
Philippines Police Continue Search for 400,000 Illegal Guns
19 May 2013
Philippine Daily Inquirer
MANILA, Philippines — And the search goes on.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) will continue to look for over 400,000 loose firearms all over the country even after the election gun ban ends on June 12.
PNP Director General Alan Purisima said the police had been able to account for more than 200,000 unlicensed guns since the PNP Firearms and Explosives Office (FEO) launched a crackdown on loose firearms dubbed "Oplan Katok."
"The lifting of the gun ban… will... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Smuggling and Renting are Rising Problems in Malaysia say Police
15 May 2013
Asia One (Singapore)
KUALA LUMPUR - An influx of cheap weapons coming through our porous borders from neighbouring countries has led to a rise in gun-toting criminals and assassins for hire.
Police say there are more than 200 jalan tikus or hidden entry points along the border which syndicates use to smuggle in the guns.
The firearms are believed to be from the Philippines, Thailand and Indonesia.
According to Federal CID director Comm Datuk Seri Mohd Bakri Zinin, who announced the... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Attack in Thailand's South Leaves Six Dead
2 May 2013
BBC News
Six people, including a young child, have been killed in southern Thailand after a gun attack at a village shop, police say.
At least four gunmen fired bullets at the shop in Pattani province before escaping on motorbikes.
The attack comes days after a second round of peace talks between Muslim separatists and the Thai government.
More than 5,000 people have been killed since a separatist insurgency reignited in the Muslim-majority region in 2004.
A toddler was... (GunPolicy.org)
80-Yr-Old Indian Engineer Arrested for Supplying Arms Parts to Gang
1 May 2013
DNA India (Mumbai)
An 80-year-old man from Dadar was arrested on Tuesday for allegedly supplying spare parts of imported weapons, arms and ammunition to a Uttar Pradesh-based gang. A joint team of the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad and Mumbai police also recovered spare parts of imported weapons and ammunition from his flat.
Senior inspector of Dadar police station Prakash Patil said that D'Souza was arrested from his fifth floor flat at Salvation Apartments in Agar Bazaar area.... (GunPolicy.org)
2 Injured After Thai School Shooting
29 April 2013
SINA (China)
BANGKOK - Two people was hurt in a gun attack on a school in the restive southern province of Narathiwat late Sunday night [sic].
Police said a number of assailants arrived at Buke Bakong School in Narathiwat's Yingo district on a pick-up truck when seven people, including assistant teachers and members of village defense unit, were on security duty in front of the school.
One of the men fired three shots at them with a war weapon. One bullet grazed the ear of Amran... (GunPolicy.org)
Support for Stricter Gun Control Falls Slightly in Philippines
23 April 2013
Sun Star (Philippines)
MANILA - Three out of four Filipinos back the implementation of strict gun licensing regulations to prevent or curb violence arising from the use of loose firearms, down seven points from 82 percent in October 2000.
In a survey conducted by Pulse Asia from March 16 to 20, levels of support for such policy range from 66 percent to 87 percent across geographic areas and from 72 percent to 81 percent across socio-economic classes.
Residents in Metro Manila, where a New... (GunPolicy.org)
India's Anti-Terrorist Squad Busts Gun Smuggling Gang
19 April 2013
Pioneer (India)
LUCKNOW - Sleuths of the Anti-Terrorists Squad (ATS) arrested four persons and claimed to have busted a gang which is smuggling parts of arms from overseas and assembling them here to dispose it off later to hardened criminals at higher rates. They said to have recovered arms in large quantity besides equipments and tools used for assembling.
Giving the details of the above development here on Thursday afternoon, ADG (law and order) Arun Kumar, said that the ATS is... (GunPolicy.org)
Indonesia Police Ask Citizens to Surrender Illegal Homemade Guns
18 April 2013
Borneo Post
MIRI - The people here who have in their homemade guns are urged to surrender them to the police station or risked legal action taken against them.
District police chief ACP Mun Kock Keong told a press conference here yesterday that they would not compromise with any group of individuals found in possession of the guns.
"It is a serious offence to possess such gun [sic]. The offenders could be jailed up to 14 years if found guilty under Section 4 of the Firearms... (GunPolicy.org)
Indonesia Police Say Most Armed Robbers Use Homemade Guns
17 April 2013
Jakarta Post
JAKARTA - The police revealed on Tuesday that most guns used in armed robberies were homemade.
City police spokesman Sr. Comr. Rikwanto said that 98 percent of the guns confiscated from robbery suspects were homemade and that most of them were made by air rifle makers.
"We are now tracing the air rifle makers who produce the homemade guns used in crimes," he said.
He added that the police had confiscated evidence such as raw materials for guns from an air rifle... (GunPolicy.org)
600,000 Unlicensed Guns in Philippines as Black Market Thrives
11 April 2013
France 24
Bespectacled and clean shaven, 37-year-old Jomari Paraas could pass for a typical office employee in the Philippines, except he has six guns in his backpack that he will soon sell.
The father-of-two is a prolific player in the country's enormous and lucrative weapons black market, which has been under scrutiny following a spate of high-profile massacres and shoot-outs this year.
"Why do I trade guns? Because there is a demand for it. And it's extra income," said... (GunPolicy.org)
Philippines Military Loses 200 Guns in Fire
8 April 2013
Philippine Star
MANILA, Philippines - The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) lost more than 200 assault rifles and machine guns in a fire that razed its firearms supply building in Zamboanga del Sur over the weekend.
Belated reports reaching the Armed Forces of the Philippines' main headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo said that the blaze that hit the 1st Infantry Division Training Unit (IDTU) Supply building at Upper Labangan, Pulacan in Pagadian City, started with an explosion.
The... (GunPolicy.org)
Philippines Police Arrest Almost 2,000 for Breaches of Election Gun Ban
29 March 2013
Philippine Star
MANILA, Philippines - Authorities have apprehended almost 2,000 violators of the ongoing Commission on Elections gun ban, the Philippine National Police said on Friday.
In its latest count since the poll gun ban started last Jan. 13, the PNP has recorded 1,980 people arrested for illegally carrying firearms, bladed weapons and ammunitions [sic].
The PNP said that among those arrested were 13 soldiers, 23 policemen, 26 government officials, a fireman and 99 security... (GunPolicy.org)
Corrupt Glock Police Pistol Deals Feed Philippine Crime Gun Market
26 March 2013
Investvine (Hong Kong)
Austrian gun maker Glock has been accused of supplying the black market in the Philippines with firearms in deals that were originally sealed with the Philippine National Police (PNP).
Over the past years, Glock delivered several batches of its highly demanded 9mm pistols to the PNP. The most recent deal was 12,000 pistols worth around $30 million ordered by the country's police forces as a first shipment of the biggest firearms procurement of the PNP so far, delivered... (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)
South America,Eastern Europe,Thailand,Italy,Canada,United States,Philippines
The Gunmakers of the Philippines
20 March 2013
BBC News
CEBU, Philippines - A shot rings out from a factory on the outskirts of the Philippines' second-biggest city, Cebu.
But this isn't an all-too-frequent drive-by killing or an argument that has become violent.
The sound is from a testing range at Shooters Arms, the country's second-largest gun factory.
Shooters Arms produces about 20,000 pistols and shotguns every year, 85% of which are sold abroad - mainly to the US, Canada, Italy and Thailand.
Operations manager... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun, Ammo and Drugs Seized in Malaysia
14 March 2013
Malay Mail (Kuala Lumpur)
GEORGE TOWN - A 61-year-old man and his son and daughter-in-law have been detained by police for suspected involvement in using their pre-war house as a drug processing laboratory and for possession of firearms.
A gun, handgrenade and several rounds of ammunition were seized together with drug processing apparatus and an assortment of drugs from the colonial shophouse in Jalan Patani.
The man and his son and daughter-in-law, both in their 30s, were said to have used... (GunPolicy.org)
More Than 1,500 People Violated Election Gun Ban Law in Philippines
12 March 2013
Manila Channel
MANILA, Philippines — As of Tuesday morning (March 12), at least 1, 551 violators of the election gun ban law were arrested since January 13, this year.
Chief Superintendent Generoso Cerbo Jr., spokesman for the Philippine National Police (PNP), said 1,582 firearms were also seized from those arrested suspects.
Cerbo said among the violators are 1,403 civilians, 93 security guards, 20 policemen, 11 AFP personnel, 20 government officials, two from CAFGU, and one each... (GunPolicy.org)
Customs Seize Four Guns Smuggled into Philippines with Rice, Sugar
7 March 2013
Sun Star (Philippines)
The Bureau of Customs (BOC) Port of Cebu yesterday seized smuggled rice, sugar, guns, a motorcycle, bags and fashion accessories in the cities of Cebu and Lapu-Lapu.
It said the confiscated goods were worth a total of P116 million.
Top BOC officials began by examining 10 20-foot cargo containers, which held allegedly smuggled rice valued at P10 million. They then proceeded to examine four other 20-foot containers containing P5 million worth of sugar, which they also... (GunPolicy.org)
European Union,Sweden,Myanmar,Syria
Stray Swedish Weapons Show Up in Syria, Myanmar Despite EU Ban
7 March 2013
Local (Sweden)
Syrian rebels appear to be using Swedish weapons, visible in a new video that has emerged from the civil war in which an anti-regime fighter cradles a well-known Swedish model of anti-tank rifle.
TV4 news found the video in which a rebel fighter emerges with a Carl Gustaf rocket launcher perched on his right shoulder.
The report dubs the weapon a "Swedish export success story".
It is the second time in the past few months that Swedish weapons have made their way to... (GunPolicy.org)
Thai Men Arrested for Allegedly Selling Homemade Guns on Facebook
27 February 2013
Bangkok Post
Police have arrested two men for allegedly selling homemade guns, many of them to technical college students and teenagers, on Facebook.
The two suspects, Withaya Chai-Auari, 32, and Suriya Khoksombat, 25, were arrested in Bangkok yesterday.
An undercover police officer posing as a customer contacted Mr Withaya on the internet to buy weapons. Mr Withaya turned up for the meeting with the guns in Phahon Yothin Soi 55 and was immediately arrested, police said.
Police... (GunPolicy.org)
Indonesia Police Arrest Former Soldier for Selling Gun
13 February 2013
Jakarta Post
Police announced on Tuesday that they had arrested a former member of the Indonesian Military for selling a firearm he snatched from a police cadet in Makassar, South Sulawesi.
Police arrested TMT, 25, in South Jakarta on Jan. 7 after detectives posed as buyers. Police also seized a V2 firearm as evidence.
The suspect was about to sell the firearm for Rp 25 million (around US$2,500).
Jakarta Police spokesman Sr. Comr. Rikwanto said that the man robbed the cadet just... (GunPolicy.org)
Philippines Govt Passes New Gun, Ammo Law
5 February 2013
Philippine Star
MANILA, Philippines - The Senate has passed on third and final reading a measure that will provide a comprehensive law on firearms and ammunition as well as penalties for violating the law.
The proposed Act also amends Presidential Decree 1866 on laws on unlawful possession, manufacture and dealing in the acquisition or disposition of firearms and ammunition.
It also mandates that the use of loose firearms, when inherent to the commission of a crime punishable under... (GunPolicy.org)
Myanmar Police Seize Drugs, 96 Guns on Indian Border
4 February 2013
Irrawaddy (Burma)
Burmese police seized around US $140,000 worth of pseudo-ephedrine-based cold and flu tablets and a large cache of weapons in Tamu, Sagaing Division, on Sunday, according to local sources and state-media reports.
"A couple has been detained for questioning and anti-narcotics forces are preparing to charge them with illegal possession of weapons and drug trafficking," an officer from the Tamu Police Station told The Irrawaddy on Monday.
Initial reports suggested that... (GunPolicy.org)
Malaysian Journalist Dies in Lebanon Gun Accident
4 February 2013
New Straits Times (Malaysia)
KUALA LUMPUR - A Malaysian journalist was killed in a firearm accident in Lebanon on Saturday.
Claudia Theophilus, 42, who worked as a web producer with Al-Jazeera English news agency, died after a rifle - which she was looking at, went off accidentally about 2.30am (8.30am Malaysian time).
The incident happened in Baakleen - 45km from Beirut.
Malaysian ambassador to Lebanon Ilango Karuppannan said Theophilus died shortly after she arrived at a general hospital in... (GunPolicy.org)
Malaysian 'Sect' Leader Charged Over Imitation Guns, Swords
29 January 2013
Star (Malaysia)
JASIN - A man believed to be the leader of an alleged deviant sect claimed trial at the Magistrate's court here Tuesday to two separate charges of possessing a cache of dangerous weapons and imitation firearms.
Mohd Jaffar Robani, 46, was alleged to have in his possession 29 swords, 11 machetes, three knives and a spear.
He faced charges under Section 7(1)(a) of the Corrosive, Explosive and Dangerous Weapons Act 1958, which carries a two-year jail sentence and fine of... (GunPolicy.org)
Philippines Police Bust Illegal Gun Manufacturers, Seize Parts
26 January 2013
Inquirer News (Philippines)
Eight were arrested and several firearms, gun parts and equipment valued at around P1 million were seized in two separate raids described by police as a big blow in the illegal production of firearms in Danao City, northern Cebu.
The operations were conducted by operatives of the Provincial Intelligence Branch (PIB) of the Cebu Provincial Police Office (CPPO) last Thursday afternoon in sitio Canbiohan, barangay Poblacion, Danao.
Those arrested were identified as Jaime... (GunPolicy.org)
Former Philippines Rebel Group Surrenders More Firearms
25 January 2013
Philippine Star
BAGUIO CITY, Philippines - The now "decommissioned" paramilitary Cordillera Peoples Liberation Army (CPLA), a splinter group from the New Peoples Army in 1986, surrendered at least 11 more assault rifles to the government.
The latest batch of surrendered firearms brought to 159 the total number of guns that the CPLA turned in since the start of the group's decommissioning last year when the CPLA forged a final pact with the government.
Army Col. Loreto Magundayao,... (GunPolicy.org)
Philippines Authorities Say 16 Guns Seized, 1 Dead Since Election Ban
15 January 2013
Philippine Daily Inquirer
MANILA, Philippines — One person has been killed since the election gun ban started this year while at least 16 total firearms have been confiscated across the country, a police spokesman said Tuesday.
Chief Superintendent Generoso Cerbo Jr., Philippine National Police (PNP) Spokesman, said that Fernando Morales was killed after he fought back at police who were serving a warrant of arrest to him in San Juan, Batangas Monday around 1:30pm.
Morales was an alleged... (GunPolicy.org)
In Past 9 Years, Insurgents Mounted 171 Raids to Steal Guns in Thailand
4 January 2013
Nation (Bangkok)
A total of 3,380 people have been killed and 8,388 wounded in terror attacks since the resumption of insurgent violence in the deep South nine years ago today, according to figures released yesterday by the Southern Border Provinces Administrative Centre.
The attacks included 2,480 roadside and vehicular bombings, the centre said.
Of the 1,629 assault rifles and handguns seized by insurgents during their attacks - including 413 M16 rifles taken in the January 4, 2004,... (GunPolicy.org)
8 Dead in Philippines Shooting, Unlicensed Guns Rife Say Police
4 January 2013
CBC News (Canada) / Associated Press
A man with domestic problems fatally shot eight people, including a pregnant woman and two children, after taking alcohol and drugs in a rampage Friday near the Philippine capital that ended when he was shot dead by police, officials said.
At least eight other people were wounded in Kawit township, about 16 kilometres south of Manila, Cavite provincial Gov. Jonvic Remulla said.
The violence happened days after the death of a 7-year-old girl who was hit in the head by... (GunPolicy.org)
Killing of a Young British Tourist Generates Gun Crackdown in Thailand
4 January 2013
Travel Daily News
The killing of a young British tourist in Koh Phangan, near Koh Samui in Southern Thailand, forces authorities to finally act to better enforce controls of firearms in the province. Especially as Thailand remains one of the few countries in Southeast Asia with travel advisories from the Foreign Office.
BANGKOK- Petty crime and cheating in Thailand against tourists happens –especially in tourist areas. But violence and killing against foreign travellers remain... (GunPolicy.org)
Girl's Death Triggers Gun Debate in Philippines
4 January 2013
Bangkok Post / AFP
The death of a girl hit by celebratory gunfire on New Year's Eve sparked calls Thursday for stricter gun controls in the Philippines, where unlicensed weapons are widely blamed for rampant violence.
The girl, Stephanie Ella, aged seven, died Wednesday from a gunshot wound to the head, triggering outrage and condemnation of poor law enforcement that allows hundreds of thousands of unregistered firearms to be on the streets.
"This incident should not be allowed to... (GunPolicy.org)
Gunman Kills 7, Injures 6 in Philippines Town of Kawit
4 January 2013
BBC News / AP
A gunman has opened fire in a town near the Philippine capital, Manila, killing at least seven people and wounding six before being shot dead by police.
The gunman, reported to be a former local election candidate, ran through the streets of Kawit, 40km (25 miles) south of Manila, shooting at random.
A seven-year-old girl and a pregnant woman were among the dead, police said.
They are searching for an accomplice who reportedly helped the gunman load his... (GunPolicy.org)
Philippines Police Campaign to Renew Gun Licences, Registration
26 December 2012
Journal (Manila)
Police commanders nationwide were ordered yesterday to press the campaign against loose firearms to prevent their use in the mid-term elections next year, Philippine National Police chief Director General Alan LM Purisima said.
Purisima said the PNP Task Force Secure and Fair Elections (SAFE) 2013 is currently conducting massive operations to account for a total of 552,338 firearms with expired licenses and some 25,000 others which have not been registered at all based... (GunPolicy.org)
Philippines: The 10th in Gun Homicide Rates Worldwide
19 December 2012
Sun Star (Philippines), Opinion
What has the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre in Newtown Connecticut got to teach us about safety and protection of Filipinos?
Plenty, I daresay. Not that most Filipinos know any of the victims from Adam and Eve. Still, the massacre has touched the hearts of many Filipinos. Many of us see our kids among the victims, the wife or sister of the teachers killed.
We remember our horrendous massacres, notably the Maguindanao Massacre.
But then, Maguindanao and Newton... (GunPolicy.org)
Honduras,Colombia,Mexico,Panama,Guatemala,Swaziland,South Africa,Jamaica,Philippines,Brazil,El Salvador,United States
Top 12 Countries for Firearms Related Deaths
17 December 2012
Forbes (USA)
Few major nations have the right to bear arms configured in their Constitution. Even fewer (as in we are the only one) have gun control legislation as a hot button political issue. The U.S. is the most violent core economy in terms of gun related deaths. It is also the leader in gun violence at school campuses. Yet, the U.S. does not lead the world in firearms related deaths. Countries were gangs and drugs are a problem top the list, even where there is strict gun... (GunPolicy.org)
Malaysia Cop Acquitted of Fatal Youth Car-Chase Shooting in Appeal
5 December 2012
New Strait Times (Malaysia)
SHAH ALAM - Police corporal Jenain Subi was acting within the scope of his duties when he opened fire at the Proton Iswara driven by teenager Aminulrasyid Amzah two years ago.
The High Court found that Jenain had only answered was only doing his duty when he tried to stop a speeding vehicle.
Judge Datuk Abdul Rahman Sebli said this yesterday before acquitting Jenain after allowing his appeal against his conviction and sentence of five years' jail for causing the... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Dealers Call for Amnesty for Owners With Lapsed Licenses
1 December 2012
Tempo (Manila)
Manila, Philippines – The Association of Firearms and Ammunition Dealers of the Philippines (AFAD) urged President Benigno S. Aquino III to consider approving another round of gun amnesty for delinquent gun owners who failed to renew the license of their guns.
Its suggestion came after the Philippine National Police (PNP) declared that it has no problem foregoing the penalties that delinquent gun owners have incurred for non-renewal of guns, according to AFAD... (GunPolicy.org)
SE Asian Soldiers Rent Army Machine Guns as Tourist Lure, Cash Cow
27 November 2012
New York Times
PHNOM PENH — Just after a Honda pickup truck screeched to a halt beyond the decommissioned Soviet-era Antonov aircraft, four resolute-looking Chinese men with a military escort climbed out, slammed the doors shut and neatly arranged a series of firearms they had been carrying on a nearby table.
Once the pistols' magazines were loaded with shiny golden bullets, they began emptying round after round into paper targets at a distance of 25 meters, or 82 feet.
Nearby,... (GunPolicy.org)
Indonesia Man Arrested For Illegal Gun Possession
24 November 2012
Jakarta Post
A gold miner identified as MA, 21, was arrested on a beach in Nabire, Papua, for possessing an illegal firearm, a magazine and 12 bullets during a raid conducted by Papua Police on Friday at around 9:30 a.m. local time.
"We are still investigating how he [MA] got the weapon and the reason why he had the gun," said Papua Police deputy chief Brig. Gen Paulus Waterpauw on Friday.
This is the second arrest after police nabbed two civilians, HE and AN, in Manokwari, West... (GunPolicy.org)
United States,Thailand,Austria,Czech Republic
Thai Authorities Concerned Over Easy Access to Guns
18 November 2012
Bangkok Post
In recent years Thailand has been flooded with illegal firearms and the misery they cause is plain for all to see. Every day there are media reports of shootouts and homicides that begin with domestic quarrels, school rivalries and traffic accidents, and quickly escalate. Law enforcement officials say the root cause is the easy availability of guns, and this is true for teenagers as well as adults. People prefer to buy weapons outside of legal channels because they are... (GunPolicy.org)
Guns, Sharp Weapons Seized in Indonesia School Raid
13 November 2012
Independent (South Africa) / Agence France Presse
JAKARTA - Indonesian police detained 48 students and a teacher from an Islamic boarding school and seized firearms and sharp weapons, a spokesman said on Tuesday, in the nation's latest terror raid.
Dozens of police stormed the Darul Akhfiya school in eastern Java's Nganjuk district on Monday and kept the students and teacher overnight for questioning.
"Police detained 48 students and a teacher on Monday after the community reported unusual activity at the school and... (GunPolicy.org)
Read More: Independent (South Africa) / Agence France Presse
Philippines Police Seize Almost 5,000 Illegal Guns Ahead of Elections
5 November 2012
Balita
MANILA — Laying the groundwork for secure and fair elections in May 2013, the Philippine National Police reported on Sunday the confiscation of nearly 5,000 illegal firearms in the country during the first 10 months of this year.
In spite of the significant increase in the seizure of illegal guns, PNP Director General Nicanor Bartolome ordered police units to step up operations to account for more loose firearms proliferating in the country.
"By taking away these... (GunPolicy.org)
Homemade Guns Involved in Myanmar Conflict, Thousands Displaced
1 November 2012
Nation (Pakistan)
YANGON/DHAKA - Communal bloodshed in western Myanmar risks developing into "armed terrorist acts", the government said Wednesday, after homemade firearms were used in the latest deadly fighting.
The government said 180 guns were seized during the new wave of conflict between Buddhists and Muslims in Rakhine state, which has killed dozens and seen whole neighbourhoods razed. It said several people had been arrested on suspicion of making the weapons.
"The clashes... (GunPolicy.org)
Indonesian Men Arrested for Alleged Unlicenced Replica Gun Selling
22 October 2012
Jakarta Globe
Jakarta Police arrested two men accused of selling unlicensed airsoft guns on social networking sites last week.
The men, identified only as "D" and "A.G.," were stood next to a table of realistic-looking airsoft guns in a press conference on Monday.
Police seized 187 airsoft guns, including replicas of pistols and assault rifles, in the raid.
"They sold the guns at fairly low prices, from Rp 3 million ($312) to Rp 6 million for the [assault rifles]," Jakarta... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Crime Doubles in Thailand, Authorities Blame Smuggling, Corruption
21 October 2012
Reuters
Twenty school children surround a city bus in central Bangkok. Some get on to confront a 16-year-old from a rival school and, within moments, he is shot dead.
Similar altercations have become a focus of public attention, with shootings affecting seemingly ordinary folk.
In one incident at a busy intersection, a computer repairman shot dead two people and took a third hostage. Witnesses said it resembled a scene from a Hollywood blockbuster.
A tourist haven and... (GunPolicy.org)
Authorities Say Over 600,000 Philippines Gun Licences Expired
17 October 2012
Philippine Star
MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported yesterday that the licenses of over 610,000 firearms have already expired and the gun owners would face charges for illegal possession of firearms.
Chief Inspector Nelson Bautista of the PNP Firearms and Explosives Office (FEO) said they have sent letters to gun holders with expired licenses to renew their firearm license.
"A day after the license of your firearm expired and you failed to renew it... (GunPolicy.org)
Malaysia Authorities Blame Smuggling for Rise in Gun Crime
10 October 2012
Bangkok Post
The Malaysian home minister is blaming smuggling along the Thai-Malaysian border for the rise in the number of illegal firearms seized in Malaysia.
According to the Malaysian newspaper New Straits Times, Home Minister Hishammuddin Tun Hussein said smuggling across the border was one of the reasons behind the increase in the use of firearms in the country.
From January 2010 to August 2012, a total of 202 cases of robbery with firearms were reported, while there were... (GunPolicy.org)
Philippines Councillor Arrested Over Unlicensed Handgun
9 October 2012
Philippine Star
LA TRINIDAD, Benguet - A councilor in Kalinga provinces was arrested on Monday at a checkpoint for possession of an unlicensed pistol.
Police said councilor Pedro Mabanag, 55, a former Philippine Army enlisted man, was apprehended after trying to evade a checkpoint while on his way to Barangay Junction in Pinukpuk town on board a motorcycle.
Seized from Mabanag was a .40 pistol, which was tucked in his waist while he was driving the motorcycle.
The councilor failed... (GunPolicy.org)
Eleven People Shot Dead in Thailand After Series of Attacks
9 October 2012
Australian (Sydney) / AFP
Suspected Muslim militants have shot dead 11 people including three paramilitary rangers in a single day of bloodshed in Thailand's insurgency-plagued deep south, police said today.
The rangers were ambushed while travelling in a pick-up truck on Monday in Pattani province in the Muslim-majority border region, where an eight-year conflict has claimed thousands of lives.
On the same day, four Buddhist rubber tappers died on their way to work in two separate gun attacks... (GunPolicy.org)
Philippines Police Handgun Traced to Indonesia Terror Raid
25 September 2012
Philippine Star
MANILA, Philippines - The Intelligence Group of the Philippine National Police (PNP) has already identified the police officer whose government-issued handgun was recovered from terrorists in Indonesia, an official said yesterday.
PNP spokesman Chief Superintendent Generoso Cerbo Jr. said intelligence agents have "identified the unit and the policeman holder of the 9mm. Our agents are checking on the circumstances."
He said they are investigating how the gun ended up... (GunPolicy.org)
Thai Police Seize 168 Illegal Guns, Over 2,700 Rounds of Ammo
24 September 2012
Bangkok Post
Police seized 168 guns and almost 34,000 methamphetamine (yaba) pills, and arrested 158 wanted criminals in Thailand's central provinces from Sept 18 to 22, Provincial Police Region 1 chief Winai Thongsong said on Monday.
Pol Lt-Gen Winai said 199 people were charged with illegal possession of firearms. Police seized 168 guns, two war weapons and 2,762 rounds of ammunition.
He said 1,123 people were charged with drug possession and trafficking and 33,823 yaba pills,... (GunPolicy.org)
United Kingdom,Malaysia,United States
Calls for Higher Enforcement of Gun Laws, Ending Smuggling
18 September 2012
New Strait Times
Crimes involving firearms are becoming too commonplace these days. Consider the following incidents, as reported in the last few weeks:
Aug 9 Robbers shot at a victim who chased them at Pandan Perdana after robbing him of a handphone and some cash;
Aug 25 A robber, armed with an automatic pistol, struck at a jewellery shop in Jalan Datuk Bandar Tunggal, Seremban;
Aug 26 Mat Keya Jusoh, a coffee shop owner, was shot dead in a drive-by shooting in Kampung Bukit... (GunPolicy.org)
Singapore,Indonesia,Australia,Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea Police Arrest Man Over Alleged Gun Smuggling
14 September 2012
Pacific Islands News Association (Fiji) / Post Courier
A substantial amount of gun powder, live bullets, firearms and accessories were seized by the National Criminal Intelligence Unit (NCIU) of Lae police and Border Security officers in Lae recently.
The weapons and gun powder were confiscated following a police intelligence report of alleged gun smuggling into the country, and especially through the Lae port.
On Tuesday this week, police arrested an Indonesian man and charged him with four counts of unlawfully dealings... (GunPolicy.org)
Read More: Pacific Islands News Association (Fiji) / Post Courier
Indonesia Police Investigate Gun, Ammo Found at Theme Park
8 September 2012
Jakarta Globe
A cleaning employee at a major theme park in East Jakarta has discovered a handgun and hundreds of bullets in a plastic bag on the rim of an artificial lake there, a police officer said on Friday.
Jakarta Police spokesman Sr. Comr. Rikwanto said that Samit, 36, found the plastic bag while cleaning the rim of the lake at the Taman Mini Indonesia Indah freshwater museum compound. Rikwanto did not say when the bag was found.
"It is still being investigated at the East... (GunPolicy.org)
Cambodia Police Allege Crime Rise After Army Deserters Leave with Guns
3 September 2012
Phnom Penh Post
Armed robbery in Cambodia has doubled at the same time as more than 1,000 Royal Cambodian Armed Forces soldiers have fled their posts, taking their weapons with them, the general secretariat of the National Police Commissioner said on Friday.
At an eight-month review of the state of crime in Cambodia, Lieutenant General Mok Chito, director of the penal police department at the Ministry of Interior, said there had been 19 recorded cases of armed robberies in the first... (GunPolicy.org)
Indonesia Police Seize Guns, Questions over Smuggling from Philippines
2 September 2012
Manila Bulletin
MANILA, Philippines — Is there a smuggling of guns from the Philippines to Indonesia?
This question cropped up after the Indonesian police in Solo City (or Surakarta City), Central Java, Indonesia, killed two of three suspected terrorists in a raid on Friday night.
Reports from The Jakarta Post (JP), an English newspaper, said the Densus (Department) 88, an elite police group, raided two locations in Solo City, but two of the suspects, identified only as "F" and... (GunPolicy.org)
City Hall Rapped for Hundreds of Unregistered Guns in Philippines
2 September 2012
Philippine Star / Freeman
CEBU, Philippines - The Commission on Audit (COA) said that Mayor Michael Rama and other Cebu City Government officials violated the law for keeping in City Hall custody hundreds of unlicensed guns.
"Although some of these firearms are now kept in the vault at the General Service Office (GSO), we believe that still, this condition may not relieve the city government of the liabilities and consequences of possessing unlicensed firearms," said Cebu City Resident Auditor... (GunPolicy.org)
Thai MP Accidentally Kills Secretary With Submachine Gun During Meal
13 August 2012
BBC News
Police in Thailand say that they will charge a member of the Thai parliament with causing death by negligence for accidentally shooting his secretary dead with a submachine gun.
They say that the accident happened in a restaurant on Sunday night.
Senator Boonsong Kowawisarat took out a 9mm Uzi submachine gun while waiting for food, the Bangkok Post reported.
He told police the gun accidentally discharged and his secretary was shot in the stomach.
Police say that the... (GunPolicy.org)
Asia,United States,Philippines
Call for 'Gunless Society', Tougher Penalties in Philippines
30 July 2012
Philippine Star, Opinion
The Colorado Movie Theater shooting tragedy where 12 people were killed and 58 were injured during a sold-out midnight premier of the new Batman movie "The Dark Knight Rises" brought chills to many around the world. Imagine a 24-year-old man named James Holmes unloaded four weapons' full of ammunition into the unsuspecting crowd without any fear whatsoever. And here we are in our neck of the woods selling ammunition like hotcakes to any Tom, Dick or Harry.
Many... (GunPolicy.org)
United States,Australia,Philippines
Gun Makers Tool Up Illegal Production Lines for Philippine Election
28 July 2012
Reuters
MANDAUE CITY, Philippines - In the Philippines, they vote with their trigger fingers. Elections mean big business for illegal gunsmiths, who are looking forward to 2013 mid-term polls.
With election-related violence commonplace, the Philippines imposes a ban on the carrying of guns for six months, from campaigning to the proclamation of winners.
With legal access denied, Filipinos simply turn to the many illegal gunsmiths who ply their trade in back alleys and on the... (GunPolicy.org)
30-day Gun Ban in Armm, Philippines Starts July 1
28 June 2012
Sun Star (Philippines)
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has approved the imposition of a month-long gun ban for the 10-day general registration in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (Armm).
According to Comelec Resolution 9479, the gun ban in the Armm starts from July 1 to July 31 as part of the preparations for the voters' registration from July 9 to 18.
Have something to report? Tell us in text, photos or videos.
"Whereas to ensure the safety of the applicants for... (GunPolicy.org)
Govt Pistol Handout Backfires: Corrupt Thai Officials Sell Handguns to Thugs
25 June 2012
Bangkok Post
Shootouts involving hot-blooded youngsters are a common occurrence and the problem may be rooted in a government gun distribution policy gone wrong.
Police have been alarmed by the easy availability of firearms which have ended up in the hands of people who should not be carrying them, including youngsters.
They have found that arms smugglers are not the main suppliers of the weapons to the young people.
Rather, it is state officials and security personnel who are... (GunPolicy.org)
Cambodia,Philippines,Indonesia
Around 90,000 Illegal Guns in Indonesia
18 June 2012
Jakarta Post
With a spike in armed robberies taking place in Greater Jakarta over the past few months, the Jakarta Police are being expected to work harder to cut off the circulation of illegal firearms, a police watchdog group said over the weekend.
"The police are very sluggish in cracking down on the spread of illegal guns, while armed robberies occur everyday," Neta S. Pane, chairman of the Indonesian Police Watch (IPW), told The Jakarta Post on Sunday.
Neta said that weak... (GunPolicy.org)
Indonesian Students Call for a Gun Registry
14 June 2012
Antara News (Indonesia)
JAYAPURA, Papua - The Indonesian Papuan University Students Movement (GMPI) has requested that local police again compile an inventory of gun ownership by civilians in Indonesia's eastern most province of Papua.
The security authorities must address security problems by establishing an inventory of firearms ownership in Papua, GMPI Chairman Habelino S Sawaki said here Thursday.
He made the statement following shooting incidents in Papua during the last few... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Official Arrested at Indian Airport for Carrying Ammo without Licence
13 June 2012
Indian Express
A Punjab police official was on Tuesday arrested with 52 live bullets at the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) here just before he was about to board a flight to Manila, a CISF official said. Inspector Atul Soni, was going to Manila on a Philippines Airlines flight when his baggage containing variants of live and spent bullets was detected by CISF security personnel at at T3 terminal. Soni, who said he was posted in Mohali, had 46 live rounds of 9 mm pistol, 3... (GunPolicy.org)
Philippine Communist Rebels Wound 6, Steal 17 Military Assault Firearms
30 May 2012
Philippine Daily Inquirer / AP
MANILA, Philippines—The Philippine military and communist guerrillas on Wednesday said communist rebels attacked a military outpost in the mountainous southeast and that civilians were wounded.
New People's Army spokesman Jorge Madlos said more than 60 guerrillas raided the outpost in San Luis town in Agusan del Sur province early Wednesday. He said a soldier and five civilians were wounded and the rebels seized 17 mostly assault firearms.
Madlos said villagers had... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Bust 'Transnational Gang' of Gun Runners, Seize 37 Guns in China
27 May 2012
South China Morning Post (Hong Kong)
Mainland authorities have broken up a criminal ring that smuggled dozens of firearms into the country from Southeast Asia despite some of the world's toughest gun laws, Xinhua reported yesterday.
Police have arrested a 33-year-old Chinese man from Shantou , Guangdong - described by authorities as the ringleader - and another 13 suspects from Guangdong, Guangxi , Heilongjiang , Sichuan and Tianjin , the Ministry of Public Security said. The ringleader was arrested... (GunPolicy.org)
Philippine Police Consider 3-months Ban on Permits to Carry Firearms
25 May 2012
Philippine Daily Inquirer
CAMP VICENTE LIM, Laguna—The top police official in the Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon) region said his office was considering at least a three-month suspension on permits to carry firearms in Cavite and Batangas.
Calabarzon police director Chief Supt. James Melad on Wednesday said he was considering the ban after they realized an "abnormality" in the number of reported crimes committed with the use of firearms.
When asked if he meant a rise in... (GunPolicy.org)
Firearms Proliferation In Philippines, a Threat to Innocent Families
25 May 2012
Philippine Daily Inquirer, Editorial
Last Saturday's shooting of a 14-year-old by an 11-year-old school mate in barangay Pasil underscores the problem of small arms proliferation in the country.
According to the gunshot victim, Mark Rey Abano, a few moments before he got a bullet in the head, he saw the father of the 11-year-old boy give the gun, a paltik .38 revolver, as a "gift".
Based on 2011 data from the Philippine National Police, there are about 2 million loose firearms in the country, enough to... (GunPolicy.org)
Uncontrolled Circulation of Guns in Indonesia Jeopardizes Development
22 May 2012
Jakarta Post
The media coverage of an Army officer who brandished his gun in a street quarrel with a motorcycle rider recently raised concerns about the inappropriate use of arms.
The circulation of small arms has clearly reached a point that puts development sustainability and security in many countries in the world at risk.
The uncontrolled circulation of arms has contributed much to the mounting tension, terrorism or any other security threats to a country, such as what has... (GunPolicy.org)
Russia,China,United States,United Kingdom,Congo (DRC),Myanmar,Iran
UK Minister Calls for International Support on Arms Trade Treaty
17 May 2012
Guardian (UK)
The international arms trade has become the greatest threat to development and has to be controlled by a tough treaty to regulate weapons and munitions sales, a government minister warns.
In a speech to the Institute for Strategic Studies thinktank, Alan Duncan, the minister for international development, will urge allies such as the US to set aside their concerns and sign up to the comprehensive arms trade treaty (ATT), which will be hammered out during a month-long... (GunPolicy.org)
Black Market Handguns Advertised Openly in Remote Regions of China
17 May 2012
South China Morning Post (Hong Kong)
Black market explosives and pistols are advertised openly in the remote, mountainous Yunnan county where a mysterious suicide bomber killed three people and injured 16 last week, the South China Morning Post can reveal.
Most advertisers claim they can arrange delivery by car within an hour in central Kunming , the provincial capital, with guns handed over outside supermarkets and post offices.
Some advertisers also said they had delivery networks in remote counties.... (GunPolicy.org)
Indonesian Lawmaker Urges Ban on Firearm Ownership by Civilians
7 May 2012
Jakarta Post
People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) deputy speaker Lukman Hakim Saifuddin is urging the National Police to take back all firearms they have granted to civilians, including members of the House of Representatives (DPR).
"People get easily angered. They can get really emotional over trivial matters," Lukman said on Sunday as quoted by tribunnews.com, adding it was economic hardship that likely had made them more "sensitive".
"Imagine this: Even the most well-trained... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Permits Still Issued too Frequently in Indonesia
7 May 2012
Jakarta Globe
Indonesia's National Police will continue to grant civilians gun permits, despite calls from lawmakers for stricter gun regulations after a series of headline-grabbing reports cast doubt on public safety.
The National Police have issued more than 25,000 gun permits to civilians since 2009, not counting the 10,154 permits for guns that fire rubber bullets and 5,810 permits for airsoft guns, according to National Police spokesman Ins. Gen. Saud Usman Nasution.
Critics... (GunPolicy.org)
Tighter Gun Control Laws Demanded in Indonesia
7 May 2012
Jakarta Post
Tighter gun-controls are being demanded by politicians and activists following a spike in firearm-related violence across the country.
Poengky Indarti, executive director of human rights watchdog Imparsial, urged the government and the House of Representatives to work together to change the firearms policy.
"Both should amend the law on the control of firearms and explosive, audit all firearm possession in the country and strengthen supervision and control," she said.... (GunPolicy.org)
Armed Civilians in Public Places Highlight Gun Misuse in Indonesia
5 May 2012
Jakarta Post
The House of Representatives plans to summon National Police chief Gen. Timur Pradopo in the near future in the wake of a series of incidents involving armed civilians in public places, a lawmaker has said.
A member of House's Commission III overseeing legal, human rights and security affairs, Sarifuddin Sudding, said the meeting would be carried out soon after the currently ongoing recess period ends on May 13.
"We will demand National Police chief explain why there... (GunPolicy.org)
Unlicensed, 'Delinquent' Philippine Gun Owners Threatened with Arrest
29 April 2012
Manila Bulletin
MANILA, Philippines — On the heels of a crackdown on loose firearms, the Philippine National Police (PNP) reminded yesterday all gun owners to make sure that their firearm licenses are renewed or face charges and arrest.
Director General Nicanor Bartolome, PNP chief said, an operational plan on the campaign against loose firearms is already being finalized as part of the security measures for the 2013 elections.
He warned all delinquent gun owners of the prospect of... (GunPolicy.org)
Peace Council Imposes Gun Ban in Philippine Autonomous Region
13 April 2012
Philippine Information Agency
COTABATO CITY -- The members of the Regional Peace and Order Council has decided to impose a gun ban and regulate the issuance of firearms in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).
ARMM governor officer-in-charge regional governor Mujiv Hataman said that the council has unanimously agreed to pass a resolution proposing the imposition of gun ban in the areas under the autonomous region not only during the election period but also during voters'... (GunPolicy.org)
Weeklong Gun Ban in Masbate, Philippines Starts Monday
9 April 2012
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Starting Monday, only soldiers and law enforcers will be allowed to carry firearms in the island-province of Masbate.
Philippine National Police Director General Nicanor Bartolome, in a memorandum on Saturday, ordered the suspension of gun-carrying privileges in Masbate from April 9 to 14, when the annual Rodeo Masbateño Festival is celebrated in the province as a tribute to its cattle industry.
He said that due to the event "all permits to carry firearms outside of... (GunPolicy.org)
Europe,Asia,South East Asia,China,United States
Gun Runners 'Using Internet and Express Delivery' in China – Police
5 April 2012
China Daily
Police success at border checkpoints forces arms traffickers to change
Gun smugglers are using the Internet and express delivery networks for trafficking arms into China, a police officer said.
Police broke up 69 gun-smuggling rings nationally last year, and smashed 20 gangs, Yan Zhengbin, deputy director at the public security management bureau under the Ministry of Public Security, told China Daily.
Nineteen cases involved fully assembled guns, while the remainder... (GunPolicy.org)
Davao City, Philippines Reports 50% Drop in Crime Following Gun Ban
2 April 2012
Sun Star (Philippines)
DAVAO CITY Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio reiterated on Sunday the month-long gun ban imposed during the 75th Araw ng Dabaw celebration has been proven effective to deter crimes.
The implementation of the localized gun ban met strong opposition from various sectors, including Vice Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte.
In Sunday's press briefing at her office, Duterte-Carpio presented a comparative data of the study conducted to determine the crime rate in the city over the... (GunPolicy.org)
Vietnam,Thailand,Singapore,Philippines,Myanmar,Malaysia,Laos,Indonesia,Cambodia,Brunei
Southeast Asian Nations Meet in Cambodia to Strengthen Small Arms Control
29 March 2012
Xinhua
PHNOM PENH -- The ASEAN security officials gathered here on Wednesday to seek effective measures for cooperation to prevent disasters caused by illegal arms smuggling and trafficking, said Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sar Kheng.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the three-day ASEAN workshop on Small Arms, Light Weapons and Unexploded Ordnances Control, Sar Kheng said the meeting was very important to identify effective measures for... (GunPolicy.org)
Philippine Police Plan More Gun Control, Visits to 'Delinquent' Gun Owners
26 March 2012
Journal (Manila)
MAMANG PULIS -- Philippine National Police chief Director General Nicanor A. Bartolome has ordered the implementation of stricter gun control measures aimed at reducing by 10 percent gun-related crimes and reducing by 3.38 percent the number of loose firearms in the country.
He tasked the PNP Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management to spearhead the massive nationwide gun control campaign aimed also at accounting for loose firearms and tens of thousands... (GunPolicy.org)
More Rumours, No Evidence of Indonesia-Papua New Guinea Gun Running
19 March 2012
Pacific Islands News Association (Fiji Islands)
There is an arms build-up between Vanimo and Green River in the border areas of West Sepik province, a Papua New Guinea Customs official said.
He said intelligence indicated that guns were being smuggled into the country from five locations in Indonesia.
While there were customs operations in Vanimo and Wutung, "there is none in Bewani, Imonda, Kembratoro in Amanab and Green River".
"These are strategic locations, including open jungle where illegal trade and... (GunPolicy.org)
Asia,Laos,Thailand,China,India
Indian Militants Buy $Millions of Guns from China via Thai Broker - Claim
18 March 2012
Telegraph (India)
NEW DELHI - Northeast outfits are employing crafty financial methods to procure arms worth millions of dollars and make them look like legitimate legal buys.
A series of arrests by the National Investigation Agency of militants from various outfits has revealed formulae that take the best financial brains to come up with.
A number of such devices tumbled out of the militants' closets after the NIA arrested NSCN (I-M) leader Anthony Shimray and over 20 United National... (GunPolicy.org)
Muslim Clerics Support Firearm Licensing Amnesty Campaign in Philippines
8 March 2012
Philippine Star
COTABATO CITY, Philippines – Muslim clerics are ready to support the enforcement of a general firearm registration amnesty program in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
But the group noted that this can only be done if the government puts up more courts in the area with judges courageous enough to litigate high-profile cases to establish the semblance of strong justice system.
For local sociologists and contemporary historians, it is the perennial lack of... (GunPolicy.org)
Timor-Leste,Thailand,Sri Lanka,Myanmar,Indonesia,South Asia,South East Asia,Israel,Iran,Cuba,United States,Japan,China,Brunei,Philippines,Pakistan,India,Asia
UN Urges Asian Nations to Help Curb Global Trade in Illegal Guns
6 March 2012
Jakarta Post
The United Nations is urging all nations in the Asia region to implement concrete solutions to stop illegal trading in small arms and light weapons.
"Over the past decades, trade has made this region grow so phenomenally. If you are a region where international trade is what makes you tick, you better also make sure that you are seen as doing trade in the right way," UN disarmament affairs official Daniel Prins told reporters on the sidelines of opening the Asian... (GunPolicy.org)
Nepal,Myanmar,Sri Lanka,Bangladesh,Mauritius,Libya,Morocco,Saudi Arabia,Iran,Turkey,Thailand,Indonesia,Malaysia,France,China,United States,Pakistan
Pakistan Has Achieved Self Sufficiency in Small Arms and Ammunition
5 March 2012
Indian Defence Review
After partition, Pakistan did not inherit any military production facilities. In 1951, the Pakistan Ordnance Factory was established at Wah cantonment to produce small arms, ammunition and explosives. After 1965, Pakistan, apart from shifting its overwhelming arms supplies reliance from the US to China and other western countries like France; also began to concentrate on expanding its defence production facilities. In this, it received effusive assistance from... (GunPolicy.org)
Most of 27,000 Philippine Police Officers Rely on Their Personal Guns
29 February 2012
Associated Press
MANILA, Philippines — More than 27,000 Philippine police officers — about a fifth of the national force — do not have government-issued guns, prompting many of them to rely on their own guns to battle criminals and insurgents, officials said Wednesday.
Like the underfunded Philippine military, one of Asia's weakest, the 140,000-strong police have struggled with scarce funds and weapons while dealing with widespread crimes, decades-long communist and Muslim... (GunPolicy.org)
Philippines,Trinidad & Tobago,Zimbabwe,Zambia,Uganda,Tanzania,Senegal,Congo (DRC),Pakistan,Nigeria,Niger,Namibia,Morocco,Mauritania,Malawi,Madagascar,Côte d'Ivoire,Burkina Faso,Botswana,Egypt,Angola,Algeria,South Africa,Ghana,China,United States,Austria,Russia,Israel,Bahrain,Asia,Africa,Brazil
Brazil Arms Exports: Country Preaches Peace, Sells Tons of Arms
28 February 2012
Huffington Post (USA)
A small, scratched metal can thrown on the ground created Brazil's first diplomatic embarrassment of 2012. The canister of tear gas had been collected by pro-democracy activists in Bahrain. Stamped across the can in blue was a Brazilian flag and the words 'MADE IN BRAZIL.'
One year had passed since Bahrain became the stage for pro-democracy protests by the majority Shiites against the Sunni monarchy commanded by king Hamad bin-Isa Khalifa. The protesters had been... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Violence in Philippines: 'Too Many Guns in Circulation' - Opinion
27 February 2012
Business World (Philippines), Opinion
We were walking back home -- my husband and two small kids in tow -- after a fun-filled river exploration. We were vacationing in a cousin's place, north of Manila. The road was empty, save for a guy in motorbike in front of a small makeshift nipa hut-kerosene store. Two loud noises cracked the silence, and another guy came running out of the nipa hut.
He jumped in the waiting motorbike, and the two hurriedly left. My mind was slow in processing the events; I even... (GunPolicy.org)
Italy,Philippines,United States,Russia,Germany,Czech Republic,China,Botswana,Oceania,Americas,Africa,Asia,Europe,Central Africa,Caribbean,South America,Central America,Zimbabwe,Namibia,Mozambique,Congo (DRC),Angola,Swaziland,South Africa,Southern Africa
High Gun Death Risk for Young African Men, Women at Home - UN Study
19 February 2012
Southern Times (Southern Africa)
WINDHOEK - Young men in Southern Africa are at the greatest risk of cold-blooded murder, while women in the region are more likely than others from around the world to be killed in domestic violence, a UN agency says.
The statistics from the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) come as the region battles to contain the proliferation of gun-related crimes.
Experts have said gun-related crime is a major problem in South Africa and Swaziland, and is on the rise in... (GunPolicy.org)
Aceh Elections Prompt 'Stern Action' to Curb Private Gun Possession
15 February 2012
Jakarta Post
Widespread armed violence in Aceh ahead of the province's upcoming gubernatorial election has prompted police to take stern actions to curb the possession of illegal arms by civilians.
The arms in question are believed to be remnants of Aceh's era of conflict, which have not been handed over in an apparent defiance of the peace pact in the province.
In a bid to anticipate armed attacks ahead of the Aceh gubernatorial election, police have issued an ultimatum running... (GunPolicy.org)
