Gun Policy News
Licensing firearm owners to possess and carry guns
Warrant Issued for Killer Before He Shot Two Australian Police
22 December 2022
Guardian
Queensland police have revealed there was a warrant issued for Nathaniel Train's arrest in the months before he took part in the Wieambilla shootings, but insist there were no "flags" to indicate officers visiting the property were in danger.
Deputy commissioner Tracy Linford said Train's gun licence had been suspended and an arrest warrant issued after he breached Covid-19 restrictions in December 2021.
During that incident, Train had crossed the border from New... (GunPolicy.org)
29 September 2022
Instituto Sou da Paz
On Thursday (29/09), the Superior Electoral Court (TSE) decided to ban the transportation of weapons and ammunition throughout the country by CACs (hunters, sport shooters and collectors) during the election. The restriction will be in effect for 24 hours prior to and 24 hours after the vote.
The decision reinforces the Court's commitment to free and secure elections and comes in the wake of a series of recommendations made by civil society organisations and unions... (GunPolicy.org)
Turkey: One in Three Households Owns a Firearm
28 September 2022
Al Monitor
Thirteen-month-old Kaan Tas was being pushed around a garden by his sister when she noticed blood coming from his head. He died a short while later, the latest young life lost to gun crime in Turkey.
The Tas family was visiting the southern city of Gaziantep when Kaan was hit in the head on Tuesday evening by a "tired bullet" — a round fired into the air, usually at celebrations such as weddings or send-offs for men starting their military service. The phenomenon is... (GunPolicy.org)
Brazil Armed by Bolsonaro and His Legacies
22 September 2022
Monde (Brazil)
Until 2019 the FAL rifle, produced by Imbel, was only used in the Brazilian Armed Forces, and in a few elite police units. In automatic mode, it is capable of firing bursts with up to 700 shots per minute. It also launches projectiles at 840 metres per second, and can hit a target with great effectiveness from up to 600 metres away. Because of its power to pierce armour, it has always been coveted by organised crime and bank robbery gangs. Before the Bolsonaro... (GunPolicy.org)
Bolsonaro's Gun Laws Arm Brazil's Brazen Bank Thieves
22 September 2022
Reuters
In August last year, Brazilian farmer Reinaldo Huijsmans reported a break-in at his house in the town of Maracaju, where thieves stole six legally registered weapons, including a T4 Taurus assault rifle.
Huijsmans, 39, is one of hundreds of thousands of Brazilians now registered to own guns, a group whose ranks have surged six-fold since far-right President Jair Bolsonaro was elected in 2018 and began loosening gun laws.
Two months later, Huijsmans' T4 turned up 1,300... (GunPolicy.org)
21 September 2022
Teletica.com (Costa Rica)
Muggings are now a familiar element for Costa Ricans and are one of the most common crimes committed in the country, with at least one per hour on any given day of the year.
Since weapons are one of the most common tools used by criminals to commit this type of crime, it is worth reviewing some figures on the possession of weapons in the country.
There are 217,000 registered arms in Costa Rica, but only 18,000 people have a permit to carry them, a proportion that... (GunPolicy.org)
Saudi Women Take Up Shooting After Gun Ownership Legalized
13 September 2022
Saudi Gazette
Saudi women can now legally lock and load. In barely two years, Saudi women have earned the right to both drive and to own a firearm. While women have been legally behind the wheel since 2019, it was only last year that they were allowed to own firearms.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, shooting became popular with many Saudis as a social distanced and outdoor activity. Yet, some women have been shooting for far longer.
"At a young age my father taught me how to use and... (GunPolicy.org)
Botswana Experiences Sharp Decline in Civilian Gun Licence Applications
28 July 2022
News24 (South Africa)
- About 14 000 civilians in Botswana applied for firearm licences compared to around 35 000 last year.
- Less than 300 licenses were granted after a public raffle.
- Botswana police say armed robbers in Botswana are a syndicate also operating in South Africa.
There was a sharp decline in the number of civilians applying for gun licences in Botswana this year compared to 2021.
"This year, the Botswana Police Service (BPS) received 7 274 applications for licences to... (GunPolicy.org)
Firearms in Uruguay: Lack of Information and Controls
12 July 2022
La Diaria Opinion (Uruguay)
Firearms: lack of information and controls
In recent weeks, some media outlets, parts of the political system and academia have addressed the issue of firearms control through a bill proposed by Frente Amplio senator Mario Bergara. The fact that a serious debate is beginning to take place on this issue is, in itself, good news.
According to official information from the Material and Arms Service of the Ministry of National Defence, the body in charge of the National... (GunPolicy.org)
Turkey Has 627,765 Gun Owners Licensed to Carry
9 July 2022
Agenda (Turkey)
In the statement made by the EGM, it was stated that "individual armament has increased and there are 25 million unlicensed and 2.5 million licensed guns in Turkey" on a website with "falsified" information.
In the statement, which stated that they had to publish a denial because of a similar news before, it was emphasized that the fight against fake news on this issue would continue.
Noting that there has been a decrease in the number of newly issued licensed guns in... (GunPolicy.org)
Japan has Lowest Gun Violence in World Thanks to Strict Gun Control Laws
8 July 2022
Anadolu Agency
Although former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was shot twice at an election campaign event in the Nara region, statistics show that Japan has one of the lowest rates of gun violence in the world.
It is believed that Japan owes its strict gun laws largely to the US because, after World War II, Americans shaped the gun policy and forced a firearm ban legislation in the East Asian nation.
According to the Small Arms Survey -- a global organization that keeps tabs on arms... (GunPolicy.org)
29 June 2022
Local
Is it difficult to get a gun in Germany?
To get a gun in Germany you firstly have to obtain a firearms ownership license (Waffenbesitzkarte) – and you may need a different one for each weapon you buy – or a license to carry (Waffenschein).
Applicants for a license must be at least 18-years-old and undergo what's called a reliability check. This includes checking for criminal records, whether the person is an alcohol or drug addict, whether they have a mental... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Ownership Has Risen Under Bolsonaro
28 June 2022
Buenos Aires Times
The number of registered gun owners in Brazil rose by almost six times since President Jair Bolsonaro came to power and eased restrictions, an NGO said on Tuesday.
In 2018, when Bolsonaro began his mandate, there were 117,467 gun owners registered as hunters, sport shooters and collectors, according to Army figures collected by the Brazilian Forum of Public Security (FBSP) NGO. In June 2022 that figure had jumped to 673,818.
"There was a very big increase in the... (GunPolicy.org)
In Puerto Rico, Buying a Gun Is Now Easier Than Ever
26 June 2022
Global Press Journal
The Puerto Rico Weapons Act of 2020, which made legally obtaining and carrying a firearm much easier, is now over two years old — and Puerto Ricans are buying guns as never before. Nearly 100,000 gun licenses were issued in 2020 and 2021 in total, compared to around 1,200 in 2017.
[Chart in the original]
The Puerto Rico Weapons Act of 2020 was established to create a "new law that conforms to the current reality by seeking a balance between the constitutional right... (GunPolicy.org)
What Rules Does Austria Have On Gun Ownership?
25 May 2022
The Local, Austria
The country has one of the most permissive gun laws in Europe. However, applicants still need a license and go through evaluations before being allowed to buy a weapon.
As the debate on gun ownership laws is brought back into the headlines after a tragic mass shooting in the United States on May 24th, it might be surprising to read that tranquil and peaceful Austria is also one of Europe's most permissive countries regarding gun laws.
Private gun ownership is allowed... (GunPolicy.org)
Belgium Sees Growing Interest of Young People in Shooting
23 May 2022
Sud Info (Belgium)
According to the latest figures from the Central Weapons Register, almost 170,000 private individuals own weapons in Belgium! The number of declared weapons has increased again and Hainaut remains the most armed province in the country.
Weapons continue to be popular in Belgium. According to the latest figures provided by the Minister of Justice, 678,592 weapons are registered in our country and they are held by 168,349 individuals, which amounts to an average of 4... (GunPolicy.org)
Legal Firearm Registrations on the Up in Belgium
23 May 2022
Brussels Times
As of 2022, 678,592 registered firearms are held by 168,349 people in Belgium, an increase of over 8,000 new registered weapons, according to statistics obtained from the Ministry of Justice by Belgian newspaper Sud Press.
In other words, the average gun licence holder has around 4 weapons. Hainaut, in Wallonia, remains the most heavily-armed area in Belgium, also explained by the large number of shooting clubs and historical shooting traditions, such as pole... (GunPolicy.org)
Philippines: License fo Carry Extended to 10 Years
18 May 2022
CNN
President Rodrigo Duterte has signed a new law extending the validity of firearm registration and licenses to carry them up to ten years.
Under Republic Act 11766, these can be renewed every five years or ten years "at the option of the licensee, which shall be reckoned from the birthdate of the said licensee, unless sooner revoked or suspended."
Failure to renew the license on or before the date of expiration will cause its revocation and of the firearm's... (GunPolicy.org)
Philippines Law Extends Validity of Firearm Licenses
17 May 2022
Philippines News Agency
President Rodrigo R. Duterte has signed a law extending the validity of the license to possess firearms and ammunition.
Republic Act (RA) No. 11766, signed by Duterte on May 6, extends the validity of the license to possess firearms and ammunition from two years to five or 10 years, amending RA 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
"All licenses to possess a firearm, regardless of type or classification, shall be renewed every five years... (GunPolicy.org)
Record Number of Guns Registered in Uruguay
2 April 2022
El Observador (Uruguay)
In 2021 there was a record number of guns registered in Uruguay; three times as many were regularised as in 2019.
Across the country there are 606,704 registrations; 37% are revolvers; long guns are preferred in the coastal region.
In August 2014, a law of José Mujica's government sought to regulate the possession, carrying, commercialisation and trafficking of arms and ammunition. It was only implemented two years later, in December 2016, when the corresponding... (GunPolicy.org)
Western Australia to 'Rewrite' its Firearm Laws
22 March 2022
Sydney Morning Herald
Premier Mark McGowan and Police Minister Paul Papalia on Tuesday announced an overhaul of the state's gun ownership laws.
It has been revealed the number of licensed firearms in the state had soared by 60 per cent, with a gun owner on close to every suburban street.
A WA Police map showed around 3.4 per cent of the population, or 89,000 people, hold gun licences. They possessed, on average, four firearms each – which reflected national figures.
And while the number... (GunPolicy.org)
Polish Right Calls for Easier Access to Guns
21 March 2022
Euroactive
The Polish right has proposed simplifying gun ownership regulations and shortening the procedure for applying for a gun permit as Russia's attack on Ukraine has renewed discussions in Poland about the country's stringent gun ownership laws.
Education minister Przemysław Czarnek has already announced that schools will provide defence training and shooting exercises for students as of September.
Those who back easier access to weapons say that Russia's attack on... (GunPolicy.org)
Western Australia to Rewrite State's Gun Control Law
21 March 2022
West Australian (Perth)
Western Australia's outdated firearms laws will be completely rewritten by the McGowan Government, as shocking new maps reveal the true scale of gun ownership in suburban Perth.
The maps -- provided to The West Australian from the WA Police Force database -- show how prolific the potentially lethal weapons have become in every corner of the city.
Each green dot represents a house where a handgun - such as a revolver or pistol - is being stored, while the thousands... (GunPolicy.org)
Plymouth Mass Shooting Investigation Concluded
16 March 2022
Plymouth Herald (UK)
The police watchdog investigating how and why the Keyham gunman had his pump-action shotgun returned to him by Devon and Cornwall Police after it was removed said it has now completed its inquiry - but its findings cannot be made public at this time.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct's (IOPC) investigation was launched in the wake of the tragic events on August 12, 2021 which saw the deaths of five people as well as the gunman, Jake Davison, by his own hand. A... (GunPolicy.org)
Morocco Approves Draft Law to Regulate Firearms
12 March 2022
Hespress
The Government Council, chaired by Aziz Akhannouch Head of Government, approved, in its session of Thursday on March 10, the draft law No. 86.21 on firearms, their parts, components, accessories, and ammunition, put forth by the Minister of the Interior Abdelouafi Laftit.
The project aims to fortify the kingdom's legislation with international conventions against all forms of illicit firearms trafficking.
At a press conference after the meeting of the Government... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Sales Soar in Lithuania After Russian Invasion of Ukraine
11 March 2022
National Interest (Lithuania)
Gun buyers in Lithuania are flocking to stores. Lithuanian media report that sales have increased eightfold and applications for gun licenses have more than doubled. Media outlets also report that shooting ranges are seeing increases in clients hoping to hone their skills.
These sales are believed to be largely driven by Lithuanian fears that Russia could invade in the future.
"[Putin] has much larger ambitions in Ukraine," President Joe Biden said in February. "He... (GunPolicy.org)
Kuwait Government Calls for Surrender of Firearms
5 March 2022
Arab Times (Kuwait)
The Public Relations and Security Media Department of the Ministry of Interior stated that, based on the directives of the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior, Lieutenant-General Anwar Al-Barjas, to address the crimes of possessing weapons without a license, and to arrest anyone who violates Law No. 6 of 2015 regarding regulating the collection of weapons, ammunition and explosives, and as part of the efforts of the criminal security sector to impose the prestige... (GunPolicy.org)
3 Million Firearms in Civilian Hands in Argentina
28 February 2022
Instituto de Estudios Comparados en Ciencias Penales y Sociales (INECIP)
There are more than 1.5 million registered weapons on the street in the possession of civil society in Argentina. Although by law the state is committed to reducing this number, the state itself "does not even do what the law requires, and it does so not only by omission but also by political decision," said Julián Alfie, coordinator of the Institute for Comparative Studies in Criminal and Social Sciences (Inecip) and researcher on the issue of civil society... (GunPolicy.org)
Read More: Instituto de Estudios Comparados en Ciencias Penales y Sociales (INECIP)
Ukrainian Parliament Passes Emergency Firearm Carry Law
24 February 2022
Business Insider
The Ukrainian parliament passed a law on Wednesday, which allows citizens to carry firearms in public, alongside the enactment of a state of emergency, after Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered troops to eastern Ukraine on Monday.
Previously, Ukrainian citizens were barred from carrying guns outside of their homes.
"Now it's the intention of the parliament is to liberalize ownership of armaments by citizens," Dmytro Shulga, the European Programme Director at the... (GunPolicy.org)
France Launches New Software to Better Control Weapons
8 February 2022
Express
Nearly 5 million people, mainly hunters, will have to register their weapons from Tuesday in a new software that is supposed to ensure better control of legally held rifles and pistols in France.
The new tool, designed by the interior ministry and called the Weapons Information System (SIA), replaces the Agrippa application, created in 2007 and deemed "outdated" by Beauvau.
"It is the file of honest people, the holders of weapons who hold them in a regular manner,"... (GunPolicy.org)
Permits to buy firearms on the rise
28 January 2022
El Sol de México
During the first half of Q4, 16,150 [firearm licences] were granted, 31% more than in the first three years of Peña Nieto's term.
His history with the use of firearms goes back to his childhood. When he was six years old, he would go hunting with his father in the mountainous areas on the outskirts of the ranchería where he lived in Tepalcatepec, Michoacán. His old man would show him how to hold and aim the shotgun to shoot deer, birds and other species. Now, nearly... (GunPolicy.org)
Kyrgyzstan: Gun Control Needs to be Tightened
21 January 2022
Central Asian Bureau for Analytical Reporting (Cabar Asia)
In recent years, mass attacks on educational institutions have become widespread in various countries. If such tragedies were previously known to the world from the West, now they are known from all over the world, including Russia. Last year, the former Soviet Union countries were shocked by the tragic events in Russia: 15 people were killed by gunmen at Perm University and Kazan high school. Given the common information space shared between Russia and Central Asian... (GunPolicy.org)
Read More: Central Asian Bureau for Analytical Reporting (Cabar Asia)
Continued Steady Increase in Czech Gun Ownership
3 January 2022
Zbrojnice.com
Gun Statistics 2021: Continued steady increase in gun ownership and number of guns, amendment to law had no major impact
The second COVID year did not bring any major change to the Czech civilian gun ownership statistics. The steady increase in the number of gun holders continues. Paradoxically, the increase in 2021 was slightly slower than the year before, although part of 2020 was marked by the impossibility of proficiency tests due to government restrictions. In... (GunPolicy.org)
Uruguay: 40% Increase in Requests for Arms Regularisation
20 December 2021
El Pays (Uruguay)
Project proposes extending the deadline to regularise the possession, carrying and marketing of all weapons in Uruguay.
The law dates from 2014, but the administrative task it entrusted to the authorities and society has not yet been completed, and the political system is proposing to extend, once again, the deadline for regularising the possession, carrying and marketing of all weapons in Uruguay, for which originally a year's time had been granted.
Since then, the... (GunPolicy.org)
Plymouth Mass Shooting Inquest Will Look At 10 Key Points
9 December 2021
Plymouth Herald (UK)
A six-week-long jury-led inquest into the deaths of five people killed by Keyham gunman Jake Davison will include an examination of why his mother reported him to the Government's counter-terrorism scheme. Today's two pre-inquest reviews into the killings on August 12, 2021, revealed the scope of the forthcoming full inquest which will begin on January 16, 2023.
Maxine Betty Davison, age 51, Lee Raymond John Martyn, age 43, Sophie Iris Martyn, age three, Stephen John... (GunPolicy.org)
Uzbekistan to Raise Minimum Age for Buying Firearms
2 December 2021
Kun (Uzbekistan)
President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has signed a decree "On measures to approve and implement the concept of public security in Uzbekistan".
According to the document, in order to strengthen control over the circulation of weapons in Uzbekistan, the minimum age for possession of weapons will be raised.
In addition, the country will establish a procedure for periodic checks for medical restrictions on gun owners and their close relatives.
The law "On weapons" states that... (GunPolicy.org)
United States,Australia,New Zealand,United Kingdom,Falkland Islands,Mexico
How US Gun Culture Stacks Up With the World
26 November 2021
CNN
Ubiquitous gun violence in the United States has left few places unscathed over the decades. Still, many Americans hold their right to bear arms, enshrined in the US Constitution, as sacrosanct. But critics of the Second Amendment say that right threatens another: The right to life.
America's relationship to gun ownership is unique, and its gun culture is a global outlier.
As the tally of gun-related deaths continue to grow daily, here's a look at how gun culture in... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Permits On Hold in Trinidad and Tobago
6 October 2021
Newsday (Trinidad and Tobago)
The police firearms unit at the core of the imbroglio involving former police commissioner Gary Griffith, the now defunct Police Service Commission (PSC) and the leadership of the service, is in "quarantine."
On Saturday, the Prime Minister, during his media briefing at the Diplomatic Centre, St Ann's said the firearms department was closed.
"One of the recommendations that came through the plethora was that the the firearms department in the police service (is)... (GunPolicy.org)
Panama Seeks to Curb Proliferation of Long Arms in the Country
27 September 2021
Ministerio de Seguridad Publica (DIASP)
The adoption of Resolution 048, dated 13 September 2021, seeks to prevent the proliferation of long arms in the country, as well as their detailed verification, said the head of the Institutional Directorate for Public Security Affairs (Diasp), Roger Mojica.
Resolution 048 suspends for a period of one year the importation of firearms (rifle type) with a semi-automatic firing mechanism, with the exception of .22 calibre rifles. The measure was adopted in view of the... (GunPolicy.org)
Ireland Hits Record Gun Ownership
26 September 2021
Independent (Ireland)
There are close to a quarter of a million legally held firearms across the country, figures show, amid concerns of a rise in these weapons being used in murder-suicides.
There are currently 234,000 firearm certificates in circulation, according to Garda Headquarters. This equates to one in eight households in Ireland possessing a legally held firearm.
There is rising concern among gardaí and within the Government over the number of legally held guns being used in... (GunPolicy.org)
Fewer Firearms in Portuguese Homes
25 September 2021
Diario de Noticias (Portugal)
New licences decrease every year
PSP estimates that there are fewer firearms in the home, taking into account those voluntarily surrendered and new weapons acquired, but stresses that this decrease "may not constitute a trend" due to the pandemic.
In an assessment made to Lusa news agency regarding the two years of the entry into force of the weapons law, which aims to limit the number of firearms in the home, the Public Security Police said that "there has been a... (GunPolicy.org)
19,000 Firearms Licensed in Cork, Ireland
22 September 2021
Echo Live (Ireland)
If there are any concerns about a person who has a licence for a gun, that gun should be removed.
That is according to Fine Gael Cork North Central TD Colm Burke, who raised the issue of gun licences at this week's meeting of the Cork City Joint Policing Committee.
He said six people have died in two firearms incidents in Cork and Kerry since last October.
And he added: "We have had huge challenges in the Covid period."
He told The Echo: "The use of a gun is just... (GunPolicy.org)
US Spike in Gun Violence Continues
19 September 2021
CNN
So far, 2021 is on pace to be the worst year for gun violence in decades, surpassing even the high levels last year.
According to the Gun Violence Archive, from January 1 to September 15, a total of 14,516 people died from gun violence in the US. That's 1,300 more than during the same period in 2020, a 9% increase. Mass shootings are also on the rise. Through September 15, there have been 498 mass shootings across the US, or an average of about 1.92 per day. That's 15%... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria's Buhari Transmits Bills on Gun Control,
15 September 2021
Daily Trust (Nigeria)
President Muhammadu Buhari has transmitted to the senate two bills that seek to control the proliferation of arms and regulate the importation and exportation of explosives in the country.
They are: the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons Bill 2021; and Explosives Bill 2021.
Buhari transmitted the bill in two separate letters dated the 26th and 27th August 2021 and read during the commencement of plenary by Senate President Ahmad Lawan on Tuesday.
Buhari, in the... (GunPolicy.org)
Alarm Over Growing Use of Weapons at Rallies
27 August 2021
Guardian
A gunfight in Portland, Oregon, last week is intensifying concerns over escalating violence during contentious rallies in the city, as far-right demonstrators and anti-fascist counter-protesters have repeatedly faced off.
The Portland police bureau charged a 65-year-old man from Gresham, Oregon, over a gunfight in the city's downtown during violent clashes on Sunday. Authorities say Dennis Anderson drew a concealed handgun and shot at a group of anti-fascists who were... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Increases Costs for Gun Licenses
27 August 2021
Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Government has proposed to increase gun licensing fees from Shs150,000 to Shs5 million for private gun owners according to the 2017/2018 financial year budget estimates.
The development was communicated by the State Minister for Planning David Bahati while appearing before the Parliamentary Budget Committee.
This follows an increase in gun related crimes in the country with the most recent being the murder of AIGP Felix Kaweesi, his driver and body guard by armed... (GunPolicy.org)
Argentina,Brazil,Chile,Colombia,Mexico
Gun Laws in Latin America's Largest Economies
26 August 2021
Council of the Americas (COA)
Countries may adopt stringent gun control laws, but their efforts are complicated by international arms smuggling. We explore policies in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Mexico.
For government across Latin America, reducing violence and providing security are top agenda items. AS/COA Online looks at gun-related legislation in Latin America's largest economies, identifying regulations for arms licensing. In Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Mexico, gun... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Students Denounce Influx of Illegal Firearms
26 August 2021
Daily Independent (Nigeria)
Students in Ogun State have blamed the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) over what they alleged as an influx of illegal firearms into the country through the borders in the state.
The students, under the aegis of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Ogun, the National Association of University Students (NAUS) and the National Association of Ogun State Students (NAOSS) lamented that the Ogun 1 Area Command of the Service was becoming a toothless bulldog... (GunPolicy.org)
Doctors: A Gap in Britain's Gun Control System
22 August 2021
Guardian
Dal Babu is wrong to suggest that the British Association for Shooting and Conservation should not provide its members with details of fellow members who are doctors and are willing to provide medical verification for a firearms certificate (If you're asking how the Plymouth shooter got his gun, look at the broken licensing system, 18 August). The shooting community has an obvious interest in ensuring public safety. Without it, responsible and legal shooting as we know... (GunPolicy.org)
Tightening Gun Control In South Africa
19 August 2021
Conversation (South Africa)
Statistics produced by the police and mortuary surveillance systems in South Africa have consistently shown that firearms are the most commonly used weapons to commit murder and other violent crimes, such as carjacking and house robberies.
With this in mind, the Civilian Secretariat for Police Services which serves as the technical advisory agency to the Minister of Police, wants to have the Firearms Control Act amended to introduce more stringent firearm licensing... (GunPolicy.org)
Plymouth Shootings: Police Asked to Review Gun Licence Process
17 August 2021
BBC News
Police forces in England and Wales are being asked to review their current firearm application processes, in the wake of the Plymouth mass shooting.
Questions remain over why Jake Davison, who killed five people and himself on Thursday, had a shotgun licence.
The Home Office is preparing new guidance to ensure higher standards of decision making around applications.BBC News
There will be advice on carrying out social media checks on people wanting to own a firearm or... (GunPolicy.org)
13 August 2021
BBC
The mother of the Plymouth gunman, Maxine Davison, and three-year-old Sophie Martyn have been named among the five victims of his shooting spree.
Ms Davison, 51, was shot and killed by her 22-year-old son Jake Davison at her home on Biddick Drive, Plymouth, on Thursday evening.
Davison went on to kill three-year-old Sophie, her father Lee Martyn, 43, Stephen Washington and Kate Shepherd.
His attack lasted about six minutes before he turned the gun on himself.
In... (GunPolicy.org)
What Are the Rules on Firearms Licences in the UK?
13 August 2021
Guardian
A gunman has killed five people, including a three-year-old child, in Plymouth, in Britain's worst mass shooting in more than a decade.
Police said the perpetrator, Jake Davison, 22, was a licensed firearm holder, but it is not yet known whether that gun was used. The UK has some of the toughest restrictions on firearms ownership in the world. Here is a look at how authorities determine who can get a licence.
Who can own a firearm?
The possession of firearms and... (GunPolicy.org)
Israel's New Public Security Minister Weighs Tightening Gun License Applications
23 July 2021
Haaratz (Israel)
Public Security Minister Omer Bar-Lev is examining the possibility of making it harder to obtain a gun license, following years of policies that facilitated the proliferation of civilian access to firearms.
Any proposed changes will to be brought to the Knesset Interior and Environment Committee for approval, in a policy shift. Bar-Lev's predecessors advanced gun policy without obtaining Knesset approval and flouted objections by the attorney general.
The criteria... (GunPolicy.org)
How are the rules on weapons in Italy
22 July 2021
Il Post (Italy)
On Tuesday evening, the councillor in charge of security in Voghera, the Lega Nord member Massimo Adriatici, shot and killed Youns El Bossettaoui, a 39-year-old Moroccan citizen, in a square in the town centre. It seems that Adriatici had a gun licence, but the episode prompted some politicians - including the secretary of the Democratic Party Enrico Letta and some members of Italia Viva - to question the rules that allow private individuals to keep and carry firearms,... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Adopts Tougher Penalties for Illegal Firearms
1 July 2021
Daily Independent (Nigeria)
The Senate on Wednesday passed a bill which provides for three years jail term or N3 million fine or both, as penalties for anyone caught illegally possessing or dealing in firearms in Nigeria.
Titled 'Firearms Act (Amendment) Bill, 2021', the piece of legislation amends section 35 (2) of the Principal Act which previously provided a fine of just N1000 as penalty.
The amendment to section 35(2), which is captured in Clause 4 of the bill, provides for stiffer... (GunPolicy.org)
Is the Possession of Weapons Sufficiently Regulated in France?
10 June 2021
BFM.TV (France)
As cases of feminicide and gun assaults have increased in recent weeks, many questions have arisen around the sale and control of guns.
Handguns and long guns
At the end of a search carried out on Wednesday at Arthur C.'s, the second man arrested as part of the investigation into the slap given to Emmanuel Macron the day before, in the Drôme, the investigators seized this "booty", as well as a copy of Mein Kampf. This discovery raises many questions about the... (GunPolicy.org)
Tens of Thousands of People in Flanders Consider Buying a Gun
8 June 2021
Brussels Times
In Flanders, tens of thousands of people said they would consider buying a firearm for the first time or again, citing feelings of insecurity as playing the biggest role in this, according to research by the Flemish Peace Institute published on Tuesday.
The survey of 2,500 adults in Flanders found that 4% said they were considering the purchase of a firearm, more so because of the conviction that in certain circumstances, people should be able to take the law into... (GunPolicy.org)
LiNCSA Proposes Mandatory Registration of Hunting Guns
27 May 2021
Smart News Liberia
The Liberia National Commission on Small Arms (LiNCSA), through its Chairman has submitted a proposal to the Government of Liberia to begin the conduct of mandatory registration of single barrel hunting guns throughout Liberia within 180 days commencing July 2021 and granting full amnesty for the offense of illegal possession of single barrels hunting guns during the said period.
In a communication to His Excellency President George Manneh Weah dated May 25, 2021, the... (GunPolicy.org)
Italian Experts Call for a Reform on Firearm Ownership and Possession
20 May 2021
Avvenire
Saturday, April 10, in Rivarolo Canavese, in the province of Turin, an 83-year-old pensioner, Renzo Tarabella, after having shot his wife, Maria Grazia Valovatto, 70, and his 51-year-old disabled son Wilson, shot and killed the owners of the apartment where he lived, 74-year-old Osvaldo Dighera and his 70-year-old wife Liliana Heidempergher, and then attempted to commit suicide. The reason is not yet clear - probably for depression and resentment towards the neighbours... (GunPolicy.org)
Lest We Forget Massacre Victims
28 April 2021
The Australian
Twenty-five years after the Port Arthur massacre, which triggered national firearm controls, the number of gun owners and gun deaths has fallen dramatically, amid claims that states are eroding the landmark laws.
Wednesday marks a quarter of a century to the day since Martin Bryant's shooting spree on the Tasman Peninsula left 35 people dead and 18 wounded, shaking Australia from its gun culture complacency.
The National Firearms Agreement, brokered by then-prime... (GunPolicy.org)
Canada's Vision of Gun Control
18 April 2021
Bloomberg Opinion
At the same time that President Joe Biden was unveiling his plans this month to attack epidemic gun violence with all the tangential minimalism that U.S. law and politics can muster, I was 20 miles north of the U.S.-Canadian border watching what happens when people, and a nation, treat guns as if they might be dangerous.
In a small, carpeted classroom in Delta, British Columbia, a dozen of us filed in for the first of two days of classes — 15 hours in all —... (GunPolicy.org)
Still No Firearms Registry 25 Years After Port Arthur Massacre
11 April 2021
Advertiser (Adelaide)
As the 25-year anniversary of the Port Arthur massacre approaches, a News Corp investigation has revealed the National Firearms Agreement, signed in the days following the massacre, is riddled with loopholes.
A number of changes agreed by the states and territories in response to the massacre, in which 35 people were killed and 20 injured by a lone gunman at Port Arthur in Tasmania, have never been implemented.
And some laws have since been watered-down as the states... (GunPolicy.org)
Brazil Documents Surge In Registered Firearms
7 April 2021
Economist
"I always had the American dream," says Bernardo Mattos, sitting outside his shooting club in Rio de Janeiro. "Thank God, I fulfilled that dream." Since he launched his club in 2018 membership has risen steadily—particularly so during the past year of pandemic. Now around 350 people come through his doors to rattle off rounds. Mr Mattos, who says he was trained by the United States armed forces, broadcasts his views to even more. He has nearly 90,000 followers on... (GunPolicy.org)
The Dominican Republic To Buy Back Privately Owned Guns
22 March 2021
Telesur (Venezuela)
This policy seeks to reduce the levels of violence associated with the illegal possession of weapons in this Caribbean country.
The Dominican Republic's President Luis Abinader announced that a program to buy illegal weapons will start on April 6 to reduce the violence levels.
Besides the destruction of the weapons, his plan establishes compensation in cash and coupons redeemable for any product in commercial establishments.
It also includes compensation for police,... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun licencing on the rise in Colombia
18 March 2021
Tiempo (Colombia)
Why have applications to carry and possess weapons tripled?
In 2021, 3,577 permits have been requested, of which 826 were approved.
The introduction in Congress of a bill aimed at easing restrictions on the carrying of weapons, in force in the country since December 2015, reignited controversy.
Although the government responded that its policy aims to maintain restrictions and even move towards disarming more citizens, some sectors insist on the need to allow... (GunPolicy.org)
Report Shows Gun Ownership on the Rise in Turkey
10 March 2021
Stockholm Center for Freedom (SCF)
A report drafted by Turkey's Gendarmerie General Command has revealed an increasing demand for gun ownership in the country, with a 34 percent increase in the number of applications for gun permits in 2020, Turkish Minute reported.
In 2019, a total of 13,206 people applied for a license to carry a firearm, rising by 34 percent in 2020, with 17,751 applying for permits, the activity report for 2020 said.
According to the Umut (Hope) Foundation, a leading advocate of... (GunPolicy.org)
Nearly 4,000 Legally-owned Handguns in Iceland
24 February 2021
RÚV (Iceland)
There are nearly 4,000 registered handguns in private ownership in Iceland. Icelanders own a total of close to 70,000 legal firearms, with shotguns the most popular by far. Seven guns were reported stolen last year, which was significantly fewer than in recent years.
Hunting and gun-related sports have been a popular pastime in Iceland for a long time. In order to own a gun, people must have a firearms licence, pass a test, fill out many forms – and adhere to all... (GunPolicy.org)
Changes in Gun Policy Boost Number of Guns Owners in Brazil
12 February 2021
VICE
President Bolsonaro is encouraging weapons imports and shooting clubs, but discouraging the tracking of firearms in what observers say could be stoking violent crime.
Gun purchases in Brazil nearly doubled last year, yet controls on the purchase and use of weapons is weak and violent homicides are rising.
In 2020, nearly 180,000 new guns were registered in Brazil, the highest number on record and a 91% increase on the previous year.
In the first two years of his... (GunPolicy.org)
Firearm Licences on the Rise in Czech Republic
10 January 2021
Zbrojnice.com (Czech Republic)
Gun stats 2020: number of legal owners up 0.63%, quarter of a million people allowed to carry firearms for personal protection
In 2020, the trend of a slight increase in the number of gun license holders continued to a total of 307,372 people. This is not a repeat of the fluctuations of 2013 (down nearly 5%) and 2016 (up 2.8%). Despite the existence of COVID restrictions, which brought with it repeated periods when proficiency tests were not conducted, slightly more... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria: Police Warn Against Unlawful Gun Possession
6 January 2021
Daily Independent (Nigeria)
As a result of various violence and attacks, kidnapping and other vices across Oyo State, the State Police Command has warned against possession of illegal firearms in the state.
The warning was contained in a statement on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Oyo State Command, Fadeyi Olugbenga, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, Joe Nwachukwu Enwonwu.
According to the statement, "It has come to the attention of the... (GunPolicy.org)
Austrians Buy More Firearms Than Ever Before
4 January 2021
Die Presse (Austria)
Die Nachfrage nach Handfeuerwaffen ist in Österreich im Jahr 2020 in bisher unerreichte Höhen geschossen. Das geht aus Daten einer Marktstudie des Marktforschungsinstituts Branchenradar.com hervor. Zuwächse gab es demnach bei Neuanschaffungen, vor allem aber am Gebrauchtwaffenmarkt. Die Nachfrage habe sich um nahezu zehn Prozent im Vergleich zum Vorjahr auf insgesamt 71.250 Stück erhöht. Damit wurden um 6400 Gewehre und Faustfeuerwaffen mehr verkauft als im Jahr... (GunPolicy.org)
Over 5 Million Registered Firearms in France
24 November 2020
Ouest France (France)
Combien d'armes circulent en France ?
L'Agrippa [application de gestion du répertoire informatisé des propriétaires et possesseurs d'armes] recensait, au 12 novembre 2020, plus de 5 millions d'armes ( 5 263 642 armes ) : 3 889 660 déclarées et 1 373 982 armes de catégorie A et B soumises à autorisation. En 2009, l'application avait recensé plus de 3 millions d'armes dont 2 147 849 déclarées. C'est donc 1 741 811 armes de plus en circulation dans l'hexagone.... (GunPolicy.org)
Insecurity and the Right to Bear Arms in Nigeria
4 November 2020
Guardian (Nigeria)
One of the cardinal responsibilities of government is the safeguard of lives and properties, provided under Section14 (2) (b) of the 1999 Constitution as amended. So paramount is this responsibility that the entire economic, social and political progress of any society depends on it.
Nigeria for the past decade has witnessed unprecedented amount of bloodshed, destruction of properties and displacement of people from their native homes and places of business. The level... (GunPolicy.org)
Democratization of Gun Ownership in Uganda
4 October 2020
Daily Monitor (Uganda)
On November 12, 2016, Mr Matthew Kanyamunyu was arrested on suspicion that he drew a pistol and fatally shot Kenneth Akena after the social worker sideswiped his car at Forest Mall in Lugogo, Kampala.
In the shooting's aftermath, questions continue swirling around crime, punishment, impunity and even tribalism. Predictably, these questions obviate other questions about gun ownership.
Even though government has increased license fees for individuals and companies... (GunPolicy.org)
The Do's and Don'ts of Gun-handling in Uganda
11 September 2020
Daily Monitor (Uganda)
On the morning of September 5, a video clip showed State minister for Labour Mwesigwa Rukutana grabbing a gun from a police officer before aiming it at people in a car.
What followed is a long story. I review this safety and security incident by questioning and trying to answer to the question. This article tries to show what should be followed when one has or uses a firearm.
Firearms have different sizes and they include pistols, AK47, machine guns, anti-aircraft... (GunPolicy.org)
Number of Guns in Austria Increased By One Third in Six Years
26 August 2020
Der Standards (Austria)
Not many sectors of the economy are benefiting from the Corona pandemic: divorce lawyers, perhaps, and the manufacturers of protective masks and disinfectants. Firearms producers will definitely emerge stronger from the crisis.
This is because registrations of new short and long firearms in Austria have risen sharply again since the spring. In order to meet the demand, domestic gun factories are producing around the clock, sometimes in three-shift models, while... (GunPolicy.org)
Number of Firearms Increased by One Third in Austria in Six Years
26 August 2020
Der Standard
Nicht viele Wirtschaftszweige profitieren von der Corona-Pandemie: Scheidungsanwälte womöglich und die Hersteller von Schutzmasken und Desinfektionsmitteln. Definitiv gestärkt aus der Krise hervorgehen werden die Schusswaffenproduzenten.
Denn die Registrierungen neuer Kurz- und Langfeuerwaffen haben in Österreich seit dem Frühjahr noch einmal kräftig angezogen. Um die Nachfrage zu bedienen, wird in den heimischen Waffenfabriken teils in Dreischichtmodellen rund... (GunPolicy.org)
The Totalitarian Bias of Privately Owned Weapons in Czech Republic
21 August 2020
Zbrojnice.com
In the Czech lands, the civilian possession of weapons is historically inextricably linked to collective and individual protection, as evidenced by its enshrinement for these purposes in the Treaty of St.Wenceslas (1517) and the Regulation on Handguns (1524). The plethora of compact and subcompact self-defence pistols produced during the First Republic shows that this tradition has endured for more than half a millennium. It was only broken by Nazi and Communist... (GunPolicy.org)
Hunting Permits for 3,500 Firearms Revoked
19 August 2020
MalayMail (Malaysia)
Hunting permits for 3,500 firearm licensees have been revoked, said Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Tan Sri Abdul Hamid Bador.
He said the revocation of the licences was made to stop illegal poaching activities which appeared to be rampant in the country.
"We have issued about 8,500 firearm licences and out of that number, 3,500 holders have been disqualified for hunting while the rest will be withdrawn in stages.
"However, we will allow it (firearm licences) with... (GunPolicy.org)
New Firearm Amnesty in South Africa
1 August 2020
South African Government
Illegal firearm owners get a second chance with the new Firearm Amnesty period
A new Firearm Amnesty for a period of six months, commencing today, 1 August 2020 until 31 January 2021, has been approved by Parliament during this past week.
The previous amnesty period which was also intended for a period of six months, between December 2019 and May 2020 was thwarted by the unexpected Covid-19 pandemic. Despite this, the South African Police Service received a resounding... (GunPolicy.org)
'Gaps in the system': Move to overhaul paper-based gun licensing system
16 July 2020
Sydney Morning Herald
Criminals are exploiting gaps and inconsistencies in the gun licensing systems of different states and territories to funnel legal firearms into the black market, illegally dispose of guns and move their licences to other states without immediate detection.
Gun owners who lose their licence are also registering their firearms in other states - without any red flags initially being raised - because some states and territories are still operating on largely paper-based... (GunPolicy.org)
The Firearms Market in Paraguay
6 July 2020
Indepiendente (Paraguay)
Any person legally residing in Paraguay who does not have a judicial record can purchase a firearm. According to José Maria Amarilla, a specialist in intelligence, people can go to an armoury, pay a part of the cost, and the armoury is in charge of processing the permits so that the client can later pick up the merchandise.
"This process takes between three days and a week to collect the weapon registered with the Directorate of War Materiel with a blue card that... (GunPolicy.org)
LiNCSA seeks to Register Five Thousand Gun Owners
24 June 2020
Analyst (Liberia)
The Chairman of the Liberia National Commission on Small Arms (LiNCSA), Atty. Teklo Maxwell Grigsby II has outlined his vision of the Civilian Arms Registration for hunters to members of the Board of LiNCSA.
In a prepared presentation to members of the Board, Chairman Grigsby said, one of the major reasons for the Civilian Arms Registration is to ensure the control and regulation of both illicit and licit firearms, which remain a huge challenge in Liberia. The Small... (GunPolicy.org)
Certain Laws Could Reduce Gun Deaths by More Than 10%
15 June 2020
Science
Nearly 40,000 people were killed by firearms in the United States in 2018, but curbing these numbers has been a statistically tricky—and politically fraught—problem. Now, a study that tracked individual gun laws over time suggests states can reduce gun deaths significantly by doing three things: limiting children's access to guns, restricting concealed-carry permits, and restricting "stand your ground" policies.
The study isn't without its flaws, but the basic... (GunPolicy.org)
In Italy 400,000 'Ghost Shooters' Unknown to Sports Facilities
13 April 2020
Il Ducato (Italy)
Italians, people of saints, poets and navigators. And, in recent years, also of sport shooters. At least according to the number of rifle licences for shooting registered by the Ministry of the Interior. But from paper to the real frequency of shooting ranges and shooting fields, as we shall see, there is a long way. Many observers and experts have long believed that the sporting firearm licence was a ploy to legitimise the possession of a weapon, to be kept at home for... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Ownership Soars In Brazil Under Bolsonaro
31 March 2020
New York Times
A year into his presidency, Jair Bolsonaro and his sons have helped fuel a gun rights movement that had little popular support, or political clout, in the country before he took office.
President Jair Bolsonaro has galvanized gun culture in Brazil.
His trademark campaign sign was a hand folded into the shape of a gun. One of his first moves in office was to ease gun ownership rules. His three oldest sons, politicians themselves, have been fierce proponents of... (GunPolicy.org)
Hungarian Gun Purchases Increase due to Pandemic Fears
23 March 2020
Reuters
Peter Rostas doesn't want to have any reason to use the gun he was buying, but the young Hungarian father of one was taking no chances with a coronavirus epidemic he fears may bring out the worst in some people.
"It's a precautionary measure," Rostas, 33, said as he lined up outside a small Budapest shop selling non-military grade weapons that require no license. "I'd rather be laughing later than find myself in a conflict with nothing but a broomstick."
Hungarians... (GunPolicy.org)
New Zealand Firearm Registry 'Crucial' to Any Gun Law Reform
3 March 2020
Newsroom
Since countries the world over began regulating firearm ownership in the 19th century, there have been three central pillars of gun control policy common to almost every nation: seeing ownership as a privilege instead of a right, a licensing system for owners, and a registry of weapons.
New Zealand never followed through with all three. While no judge in the country would ever overturn precedent to insist firearm ownership is a right, the nation has generally had... (GunPolicy.org)
GunPolicy Director on Proposed Firearms Registry in New Zealand
28 February 2020
New Zealand Herald
Gun owners decrying law reforms are selfish by putting personal inconveniences above public safety, a gun safety expert says.
And Philip Alpers, who used to host TV show Fair Go and is now a public health expert, supports a national gun register because he believes it would make the biggest improvement to community safety.
A bill that would set up a register, among other things, is currently passing through Parliament and its passage might depend on NZ First, which is... (GunPolicy.org)
Fake News Invokes Ammunition Sales to Fijians of Indian Descent
19 February 2020
Fiji Village
R. C. Manubhai and Company Pte Ltd has labelled fake news spread by Facebook trolls claiming that "Indo-Fijians are buying ammunition to go to war with the iTaukei", as a sick attempt to incite fear and hate.
R.C. Manubhai has clarified that they import hunting grade ammunition which is provided to licensed farmers who hunt pigeons, wild pigs and wild dogs.
Company Director, Bhavesh Kumar says it is quite sad that Facebook trolls have decided to spread this fake news... (GunPolicy.org)
Fewer Gun Owners but More Hunting Weapons in Sweden
12 February 2020
Jakt & Jägare
It is often claimed in the debate that Sweden has about 600,000 legal gun owners. That is not true, according to the weapons register. Jakt & Jägare has ordered a run of the register from the Police. The trend is that there are fewer and fewer gun owners, but there are licenses for more and more weapons, mainly for hunting.
At the time of running the weapons register on 1 February, 552,554 people had one or more weapons licenses.
Since 2018, there are 4,519 fewer... (GunPolicy.org)
Liberia Launches Civilian Arms Registration Exercise
3 February 2020
Liberia National Commission on Small Arms (LiNCSA)
In fulfillment of its mandate, the Liberia National Commission on Small Arms (LiNCSA), has ended the second phase of its Direct Community Engagements on the Civilian Arms Registration for hunters Campaign with stakeholders in Sinoe, Grand Gedeh and Nimba Counties respectively. The essence of the campaign was to raise awareness amongst relevant authorities and the general public in those counties with specific focus on the hunting population.
The Community Engagement... (GunPolicy.org)
Read More: Liberia National Commission on Small Arms (LiNCSA)
Liberia Wants Hunters to Register their Guns
3 February 2020
Front Page Africa (FPA)
As part of its core function to control, regulate and prevent the proliferation of Small and Light Weapons in Liberia, and pursuant to Parts II, III & IV of the Firearms and Ammunition Control Act of 2016 relating to the possession, registration, licensing and use of the single barrel hunting guns, the Liberia National Commission on Small Arms (LiNCSA) in collaboration with the Liberia National Police has officially launched the Civilian Arms Registration Exercise... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Security Bans Display of Firearms in Public
29 January 2020
Daily Independent (Nigeria)
The Commandant General of the corps, Abdullahi Gana Muhammadu of NSCDC, has banned members of the Civil Defence armed squad from the display of firearms, especially in public places.
He said this when he paid a condolence visit to the former governor of Imo state and serving Senator Rochas Okorocha to commiserate with him on the demise of an illustrious son of the state.
Abdullahi maintained that the order was necessitated by the need to prevent future occurrences of... (GunPolicy.org)
Ethiopia's 2020 Gun Control Law: The Key Details
10 January 2020
AfricaNews
Ethiopia's parliament passed a new gun control law amid rising deadly violence across the country. The Firearm Administration and Control proclamation, passed into law by the country's upper house of parliament on Thursday, is seen as a key tool to combat insecurity in the country.
The legislation bans private trade in weapons and prescribes tough prison sentences for illegal possession of firearms.
Under the new law:
- An individual can own only one gun.
- The... (GunPolicy.org)
Illicit Arms Sales: Togo Receives Help From France to Combat Illicit Trafficking
7 January 2020
TogoWeb (Togo)
[Translated content]
Togo, through the National Commission for the Fight against the Proliferation, Circulation and Illicit Trafficking of Small Arms and Light Weapons, has been receiving technical support from France in the area of controlling the illicit arms trade since Monday 6 January 2020. At the end of the meeting, the participants will formulate recommendations to strengthen Togo's legal arsenal in terms of controlling the international arms trade.
"This... (GunPolicy.org)
Record for private gun purchases in Austria
7 January 2020
ORF
Rekord bei privaten Waffenkäufen
Die Zahl der Waffen in privater Hand ist im letzten Jahr gestiegen. Selbst das „Rekordjahr" 2015 sei in den Schatten gestellt worden, hieß es am Dienstag. Mittlerweile sind in Österreich über eine Million Waffen in Privatbesitz registriert.
Es wurden 2019 sowohl mehr Neu – als auch Gebrauchtwaffen verkauft. Nach einem Minus im Jahr zuvor fiel das Plus mit 7,7 Prozent sehr deutlich aus. Insgesamt wurden laut Branchenradar... (GunPolicy.org)
Homemade Firearms, 'Ghost Guns' and Crime in the US
5 December 2019
The Trace
What exactly is a ghost gun?
The term "ghost gun" is used by media, police, and sometimes the firearms industry to describe homemade weapons devoid of serial numbers or other identifying markings that enable them to be tracked to their maker, seller, or original owner.
For years, law enforcement authorities referred to these weapons as simply "homemade" guns or "kit" guns. "Ghost gun" is a relatively new term.
How are ghost guns made?
A variety of ways.
The most... (GunPolicy.org)
PNG Gun Dealer's Licence Cancelled for False Declarations
22 November 2019
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
Acting Police Commissioner David Manning has cancelled a PNG dealer's license [sic] for making false declarations in the end user certificate.
Documents held by the Royal PNG Constabulary indicated that the PNG firearms dealer had imported high powered firearms specifically for the exclusive use of the Royal PNG Constabulary and not for sale or transfer to a third party.
However, a review recently carried out by the Royal PNG Constabulary and international partner... (GunPolicy.org)
Punjab Gun Applicants Required to Plant 10 Trees
30 July 2019
CNN
Indian officials have launched a creative new initiative to boost the number of trees in a Punjab state district, requiring all prospective gun owners to plant 10 tree saplings before their application will be considered.
Potential applicants in Ferozepur district will each have to plant 10 saplings and take selfies with them, which they must show to authorities when they go to pick up gun license application forms.
A month later, they need to once again take... (GunPolicy.org)
92% of Crime Guns are Unlicensed in Jordan
2 July 2019
Jordan Times
Minister of Interior Salameh Hammad touched a sensitive cord when he revealed on Sunday during a parliamentary debate on the amendments to the legislation on "weapons and ammunition" that 92 per cent of all violent crimes committed in the country are carried out with unlicensed arms.
For starters, the mere mention of the right to carry arms in Jordan, legal or otherwise, has been a taboo for much too long in the country. The carrying and/or keeping of arms by people in... (GunPolicy.org)
Twice as Many Weapons in the Hands of Civilians as are Registered
22 June 2019
Perfil, Web page
After the Minister of Security, Patricia Bullrich, declared at the end of last year that "whoever wants to be armed should be armed", it is estimated that in Argentina there are more than 3 million firearms in circulation in the hands of civilians and, of that total, half are not registered. The alarming figure arises from a report to which the Educational Profile Research Team had access, which was prepared by the Institute of Comparative Studies in Criminal and... (GunPolicy.org)
Swiss Gun Referendum Background
20 May 2019
EuroNews
Switzerland — one of the most heavily armed countries in Europe — voted to comply with stricter European Union gun laws in a referendum Sunday.
While Switzerland doesn't belong to the EU, it is part of the bloc's Schengen Area which is a zone that can be visited without a visa or passport by citizens of 26 European nations.
Following terrorist gun attacks in Paris and Brussels in 2015 and 2016, the EU tightened gun rules, known as the "EU Gun Ban", the bloc... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Violence in Homicide Report Database
13 May 2019
Stuff (New Zealand)
An unprecedented Stuff investigation has identified every homicide in New Zealand in the past 15 years, revealing the vast majority of those who kill with guns are unlicensed and their weapon of choice is often a .22 calibre rifle or shotgun.
The Homicide Report, which has been nearly three years in the making, is the country's first publicly searchable database of homicides. It encompasses 1068 men, women and children killed from January 2004 to March 31, 2019.
The... (GunPolicy.org)
Increasing number of household with firearms in Austria
6 May 2019
Salzburger Nachrichten
Die Zahl der Schusswaffen in Privatbesitz ist im Jahr 2018 in Österreich angewachsen, allerdings in geringerem Ausmaß als zuletzt. Mit Stichtag 1. Jänner 2019 waren 1,056.203 private Schusswaffen registriert, ein Plus von 3,2 Prozent binnen Jahresfrist. Bis 1. Mai legte der Besitz weiter kontinuierlich zu - auf 1,068.582 Schusswaffen, teilte das Innenministerium der APA auf Anfrage mit.
Im Jahr 2018 verlief der Anstieg gleichmäßig durch alle Bundesländer und... (GunPolicy.org)
Unclear Statistics as Guns Become Tougher to Obtain in Hungary
25 April 2019
Nepszava
According to experts, the number of official gun owners is greatly exaggerated, but more people are illegally possessing rifles, pistols, and other items.
Firearm abuses are not common in Hungary, and even in recent days, armed mischief involving airsoft rifles is a rarity. However, weapons are a serious risk and their records must be up-to-date, accurate and unmistakable even in peaceful times. In Hungary, however, there is complete confusion in armament statistics.... (GunPolicy.org)
NSW Dealer Accused of Trafficking
11 April 2019
Sporting Shooter / SSAA
Shane Simpson, gun shop owner and presenter on Hunting The Menu, is accused of being a major underworld weapons supplier and of selling firearms used in crimes across Australia, including the executions of two of Sydney highest-ranking organised crime figures.
The Daily Telegraph reported police allege arms dealer Shane James Simpson operated out of a gun shop in Port Kembla near Wollongong and sold guns which were used in the murders of two of Sydney's most... (GunPolicy.org)
Illegal Firearms Dealer Charged, Hundreds of Guns Seized
11 April 2019
ABC News (Australia)
Key points:
- NSW Police seize 300 firearms from licensed gun dealer, who has been charged with 40 offences
- Dealer accused of being a 'professional facilitator' of organised crime networks across three states
- Accused has not applied for bail or entered a plea in court
A licensed firearms dealer in New South Wales has been charged with more than 40 firearms offences and had more than 300 guns seized from his business in what NSW Police have described as one of the... (GunPolicy.org)
NSW Gun Dealer Arrested for Selling Guns Illegally
10 April 2019
Illawarra Mercury
A Port Kembla firearms dealer has been arrested, and more than 300 weapons seized from his business, after he allegedly sold guns police say were used to shoot dead at least one Sydney underworld figure.
Shane Simpson was taken into custody after officers raided his firearms and hunting store - Simpson Sports, on the corner of Wentworth and Fitzwilliam streets - about 8.30am on Wednesday.
The Mercury understands police arrested the 46-year-old licensed firearms dealer... (GunPolicy.org)
Consensus on New Zealand Gun Control
29 March 2019
Policy Forum (Canberra)
In the wake of the worst terror attack in New Zealand's history, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has shown outstanding leadership on gun control, building a consensus for reasonable reform that other leaders have much to learn from, Michael Picard writes.
New Zealand's response to the Christchurch mass-shooting shows that a country can find unity, rather than division, on gun reform. Strong and definitive leadership, a balanced approach to reforming gun laws, and... (GunPolicy.org)
13 March 2019
Sole 24 Ore
There are 1,315,700 licenses issued in Italy for legal possession of weapons, up 4% compared to 2015. The data are the official ones from the Viminale, updated in July 2018. To dictate the increase is the sporting use (+27% in the last three years), while all other types of licenses are declining.
The gun permit for hunting activities is down 9%, due to the increasingly restrictive regulations for hunting, which is consequently less practised; the one for self-defence,... (GunPolicy.org)
More Officers Support Arming New Zealand Police
3 March 2019
Radio New Zealand
More and more police are in support of arming their own, Police Association figures show.
Sixty-six percent of assocation members supported general arming in a 2017 survey, up 6 percent on 2015 and up 18 percent on 2008, when only 48 percent of police employees were in favour.
Christchurch police have announced frontline staff will remain armed until a wanted man is found. Police Association president Chris Cahill earlier said their arming could spell the beginning of... (GunPolicy.org)
Portugal Breaks Records in the Seizure of Weapons and Explosives in 2018
20 February 2019
Observador (Portugal)
PSP bate recordes na apreensão de armas e explosivos em 2018
De acordo com os dados da PSP, além da apreensão, o número de armas entregues voluntariamente em 2018 também aumentou. Armas de caça ocupam a maior parte das apreensões (40%).
Só em 2018, a Polícia de Segurança Pública (PSP) apreendeu 8.979 armas, mais 200% em relação aos números de 2014 e uma média de 25 armas apreendidas por dia. No caso das munições, os números aumentaram 23%, de 71.121... (GunPolicy.org)
Tasmanian Gun Dealer Charged With Gun Trafficking
4 December 2018
The Advocate
Police laid more than 80 firearms charges against a 58-year-old Ulverstone man on Tuesday.
In a release, police said a "lengthy criminal investigation" led to the charges being laid, along with a suspension of the man's firearms dealer's license and his personal firearms license.
He has been charged with 12 counts of unregistered firearm possession, 54 counts of a licensed firearms dealer failing to keep records in an approved form and four counts of possessing... (GunPolicy.org)
Pro-gun Groups Used Ministerial Advisory Panel to Lobby Against Tighter Laws
20 October 2018
Guardian
Groups wanted former justice minister to recognise that 'lawful use of firearms can also have benefit to society'
Pro-gun groups used a ministerial advisory panel to lobby against mandatory 28-day cooling-off periods for firearms owners and to call for changes to the "genuine need" provisions which make up the backbone of Australia's gun laws.
Documents obtained by Guardian Australia under freedom of information laws reveal the former justice minister Michael Keenan... (GunPolicy.org)
Italian Gun Laws Become Less Restrictive
27 September 2018
Corriere della Sera
As of Friday, September 14, when the measure went into effect, gun laws become less restrictive. And there is no need to notify the family that there are weapons in the house. The Official Gazette, in fact, published Legislative Decree 104 last August 10, which transposes--the first nation to do so--the European Directive 853/2017 (amending the previous EU Directive 477/1991) making less restrictive the legislation on the possession of legally held weapons. In practice,... (GunPolicy.org)
Former Firearms Dealer Charged With Gun Trafficking
10 September 2018
Newcastle Herald (New South Wales)
A former licensed firearms dealer has been charged with 101 offences and police have seized more than 1180 guns as part of an investigation into organised crime.
In November 2015, the Criminal Groups Squad's Strike Force Raptor commenced an investigation into the activities of an organised criminal network operating across Sydney. Investigations concentrated on underworld killings with a focus on the bikie community.
As part of their extensive inquiries, Strike Force... (GunPolicy.org)
More Than 50,000 Firearms in the Hands of Private Individuals
3 August 2018
Postimees (Estonia)
According to the Police and Border Guard Board, 26,000 people in Estonia have 54,000 firearms at their disposal.
The number of people holding a weapons permit is evenly distributed throughout Estonia. Where more people live, there are also more gun license holders. There are 10,312 holders of a weapons permit in Tallinn and Harju County, followed by 2,285 in Tartu County and 2,054 in Ida-Virumaa. The smallest number of gun owners is in Hiiumaa, the smallest county in... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Ownership Growing in Queensland
18 July 2018
Weekly Times
Gun ownership is on the rise in Queensland with the number of registered firearms increasing by more than 30 per cent in the past six years.
Police Minister Mark Ryan has revealed there were 844,129 firearms registered with police as of June 3 in response to a question on notice from the opposition.
It's a 30.09 per cent increase since 2013 when the total number of firearms registered with police was 648,852.
Mr Ryan says the increase can be largely put down to... (GunPolicy.org)
Destruction of Illicit Firearms in Costa Rica
18 July 2018
The Costa Rica Star
The General Directorate of Armaments in Costa Rica has destroyed 191 firearms this month, firearms which had been used in various crimes including homicide, robbery, drug trafficking, and illegal arms possession and sale. The Guns destroyed included 133 short weapons and 58 long weapons which have been in custody since 2012 and were previously used as evidence in criminal proceedings. They had been confiscated by the OIJ during raids throughout Costa Rica.
How many... (GunPolicy.org)
India Developing a National Firearm Registration Database
17 July 2018
Xinhua
NEW DELHI -- India will have a national database for all licenced gun holders from April next year, the government said.
The Home Ministry said in a notification that the names of all licenced gun holders across the country will be included in the national database and they are also to be given a unique identification number (UIN) from the next financial year.
"Every licensing and renewing authority will have to enter the data in the National Database of Arms Licenses... (GunPolicy.org)
Would-be Murderer Granted Special Gun Training Permit Despite Red Flags
10 July 2018
Sydney Morning Herald
John Edwards, the man who shot his two children dead last Thursday, was able to pursue his handgun training because he was granted a so-called "Commissioner's Permit", overriding red flags raised by his answers on declarations about his background.
It is understood this permit reassured officials at the St Mary's Indoor Shooting Centre that Edwards could legally undergo handgun training - the first step towards getting a handgun licence and then a permit in NSW -... (GunPolicy.org)
NSW Licensing Procedures in Review After Family Murder
9 July 2018
Daily Telegraph (Sydney)
GUN clubs may be asked to report suspect shooters and GPs permitted to break client confidentiality to stop a repeat of an incident like John Edwards' savage slaying of his children.
The Daily Telegraph can reveal Police Commissioner Mick Fuller and Police Minister Troy Grant are holding crisis meetings today and "everything is on the table", including working more closely with the Family Court where children are identified as at risk.
Edwards, 67, was turned away... (GunPolicy.org)
NSW Vetting Process in Question After Family Murder
9 July 2018
Australian (Sydney)
The man who shot his two teenage children dead before killing himself in Sydney's northwest last week would have been individually interviewed several times to get two "quite powerful" handguns, experts say, as the NSW Police Minister comes under pressure to review gun control laws.
John Edwards would have been interviewed by a shooting club, a pistol club and police before he could buy the two firearms he used in last Thursday's attack, in which the 67-year-old... (GunPolicy.org)
238,700 People Carrying Firearm Licences in NZ
16 June 2018
Stuff (New Zealand)
A lobby group is arguing there is a "cascade of failure" in controlling gun control in New Zealand.
Mike Loder, from Shooters Lottery, says the biggest step police should take to reduce the number of cases of criminals pulling guns on cops is to tackle recidivism.
Data from the Ministry of Justice showed since the 1980s, 51 offenders had been convicted for two or more offences for use of a firearm against law enforcement officer.
Between 2016 and 2017, 368 people... (GunPolicy.org)
800,000 Firearms in Circulation in Belgium
9 June 2018
Brussels Times (Belgium)
Vlaams Vredesinstituut, the Flemish Parliament's opinion poll and research organisation, has said there are currently 781,419 guns registered in Belgium. "That's more than in 2006, when the laws on guns became tighter and owners of illegal weapons were free to hand them in with no fear of penalties", researcher Nils Duquet told the Het Belang van Limburg.
After the new gun laws came into effect, the number of registered weapons dropped from 778,585 in 2006 to 707,869... (GunPolicy.org)
Australia's Gun Laws Can't Work in America – For Now
30 March 2018
Georgetown Journal of International Affairs
Thirteen mass shootings in 18 years, 112 victims shot dead. While this may seem to describe contemporary America, it actually describes a late 20th-century period in Australia. The country's final slaughter occurred in Tasmania in 1996 – the Port Arthur massacre. A lone, "pathetic social misfit" – as described by the judge – killed 35 people. The first 29 bullets from this young man's AR-15 rifle ended the lives of 20 innocents in just 90 seconds.
For... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Laws and Ownership in Italy
23 March 2018
Local (Italy)
Italians do not have a fundamental right to bear arms, and there are tough laws regulating both ownership and use of guns in the country.
Before buying a gun, you first need to get a gun purchasing licence ( Licenza di porto d'armi o Nulla osta) -- this is also necessary if you inherit or are given a weapon. To be eligible, you must be over 18, have a certificate from a shooting range to prove you can safely use the firearm, have a clean criminal record, and state that... (GunPolicy.org)
Australian Gun Laws Successful, Study Finds
13 March 2018
Australian (Sydney)
The gun laws enacted after the Port Arthur Massacre have unequivocally prevented mass shootings, a new study says.
The National Firearms Agreement was enacted after the 1996 tragedy in which 35 people were killed. The legislation included uniform gun registration, banned private gun sales and civilian ownership of semiautomatic weapons, removed self-defence as a reason to hold a firearm license and standardised penalties.
The University of Sydney study analysed... (GunPolicy.org)
Oceania,Europe,Asia,Americas,Africa,Yemen,China,Israel,Russia,Brazil,United Kingdom,Germany,India,Canada,Austria,Australia,Mexico,United States,Japan,South Africa
How to Buy a Gun in 15 Countries
2 March 2018
New York Times
Many Americans can buy a gun in less than an hour. The process takes months in some countries. Here are the basic steps for how most people buy a gun in 15 of them. Many countries have exceptions for specialized professions, and local laws vary.
United States
1) Pass an instant background check that considers criminal convictions, domestic violence and immigration status.
2) Buy a gun. Many states have additional buying restrictions, including waiting periods and... (GunPolicy.org)
How South Korea Got Rid of Its Gun Problem
27 February 2018
Korea Exposé
In the aftermath of yet another mass shooting in the United States, international and domestic media have published articles touting South Korea as a model of gun regulation. But contrary to popular belief, freedom from gun violence is a relatively new development in the country.
It's true that South Korea is a good place to visit these days if you're trying to avoid guns. According to the Korean National Police Agency (KNPA), there were just five gun homicides in... (GunPolicy.org)
More Guns Than Adults in Some Hunter, NSW Towns
31 January 2018
Sydney Morning Herald
The Hunter is gun mad - and proud of it - with shooters stockpiling almost 100,000 registered firearms.
A Fairfax Media investigation can reveal that the number of registered firearms in the region has increased by about 30,000 - or a third - in the past five years.
In 2012 there were almost 70,000 registered firearms in the Hunter, compared to 99,502 in July last year. This equates to, on average, an additional 16 guns per day.
In the same time, the number of people... (GunPolicy.org)
303,000 Registered Firearm Owners in Czech Republic
27 January 2018
Radio Praha
The number of Czechs with permits to have firearms increased last year to 303,000, according to the police.
That figure is around 2,700 more than in 2016 and 11,000 more than two years ago.
Police say the rising trend of gun ownership has been caused by fears over migration, terrorist attacks, and fear of personal assault.
The number of guns, rifles and other firearms kept at home by Czechs rose to around 850,000, around 100,000 more than five years... (GunPolicy.org)
Sudan Collects 30,000 Firearms in Darfur
25 December 2017
Dabanga (Sudan)
The disarmament campaign in North Darfur has not led to the planned results, according to the state's governor, although more than 170 militiamen affiliated with former janjaweed leader Musa Hilal have reportedly been arrested.
Talking to a Darfur local radio on Saturday, Governor Abdelwahid Yousif Ibrahim acknowledged the small number of the weapons collected so far.
He pointed to the spread of huge numbers of arms in North Darfur, and stressed that there is still a... (GunPolicy.org)
Portuguese Registries 'Lose' 1 Million Weapons
10 December 2017
CM Jornal (Portugal)
Em Portugal, há livretes que atestam a legalidade de mais de 1,5 milhões de armas de fogo. Mas a PSP, que está a atualizar estes registos, estima que, na realidade, apenas 300 mil armas existam de facto nestas condições. Ou seja, mais de um milhão de pistolas, revólveres ou caçadeiras, entre outras, estão 'desaparecidas' ou têm documentos duplicados ou foram registadas sem que existissem na realidade.
De acordo com fontes policiais contactadas pelo CM, muitas... (GunPolicy.org)
Breakdown of NZ Firearms Endorsements
10 December 2017
Stuff (New Zealand)
Data From Infographic Showing Number of Endorsed License Holders
B (Pistol) category: 3,840
C (Collector) category: 4,003
D (Dealer) category: 462
E (Military Style Semi Automatic) category: 6,941
F (Dealer Restricted) category: 526
V (Visitor) category:... (GunPolicy.org)
A look at Weapons in Argentina
23 November 2017
Instituto de Estudios Comparados en Ciencias Penales y Sociales (INECIP), Web page
The Chamber of Deputies of the Nation today approved the law that establishes the extension of the Voluntary Weapons Surrender Program until December 31, 2019 . The initiative allows the anonymous delivery of weapons in exchange for a sum of money (around $1,000) and aims to disarm society.
But, what is the situation of weapons today in Argentina?
In our country, the National Law on Weapons and Explosives has been in force since 1973 . There, the different categories... (GunPolicy.org)
Read More: Instituto de Estudios Comparados en Ciencias Penales y Sociales (INECIP)
US Virgin Islands Shows Registration-Confiscation Link
30 October 2017
NRA Publications (USA)
If there were ever a perfect example of the endgame of the gun-ban crowd and their ultimate weapon -- registration of firearm owners -- it comes with the order by the governor of the U.S. Virgin Islands to confiscate registered firearms from law-abiding citizens as a response to the impending devastation of Hurricane Irma.
Gov. Kenneth Mapp, in a toxic Sept. 4 order, proclaimed that the activated National Guard "is authorized and directed to seize arms,... (GunPolicy.org)
The Gun Nuts In Our Parliament
14 October 2017
Saturday Paper (Australia)
While Australian gun laws are lauded as the world's most stringent, fringe political parties and lobbyists are doing their best to erode them.
Of course David Leyonhjelm is troubled by what happened in Las Vegas two weeks ago, when Stephen Paddock, with his arsenal of 23 guns and thousands of rounds of ammunition, carried out America's worst modern-day mass killing. Of course he finds it "disturbing".
From a distance of several hundred metres, high in the Mandalay... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Gun Data Shows Extent of Private Arsenals in Suburban Australia
11 October 2017
ABC News (Australia)
Private gun owners are stockpiling arsenals of more than 300 firearms in suburban homes in some parts of the country, according to new data obtained by the Greens.
Key points:
- Police data reveals the top 100 private arsenals across NSW
- In the Sydney suburb of La Perouse, one person owns 305 guns
- Greens MP David Shoebridge said the caches were "honeypots for criminals" and posed a risk to public safety
The trend is thought to be driving an overall increase in... (GunPolicy.org)
Weapon-dense Sweden Does not Have the United States' Problems
10 October 2017
Goteborgs-Posten
Did you know that Sweden is one of the world's most weapon-proof countries? Neither did I, but given the US debate on gun control after the Las Vegas massacre, it's interesting.
So I read on.
In total, there are about two million legal weapons in Sweden, which sounds like a lot, but has an undramatic explanation: The Swedish hunting tradition. Hunting weapons account for 80 percent of all weapons. The amount of weapons is also increased by the fact that shooting... (GunPolicy.org)
Lobbyists Say States Should Be Allowed to Personalise NFA
6 October 2017
Queensland Country Life
There has been immediate condemnation of the findings of a report into Australia's gun laws, commissioned by Gun Control Australia.
The report, authored by Philip Alpers, an associate professor of public health at the University of Sydney, claimed that Australia's tough gun laws had been significantly watered down by state governments since they were introduced under the National Firearms Agreement in the days after the Port Arthur Massacre in 1996.
As well as... (GunPolicy.org)
Over 3.3 Million Licensed Gun Owners in India
3 October 2017
Hindustan Times (Delhi)
Data released by the Union home ministry shows that India has a total of 33,69,444 active gun licences as on December 31, 2016
Uttar Pradesh tops the list of states with active gun licences with a whopping 12.77 lakh people authorised to carry weapons, followed by militancy-hit Jammu and Kashmir where 3.69 lakh people possess arms licences.
According to the statistics released by the home ministry, the country has a total of 33,69,444 active gun licences as on... (GunPolicy.org)
Nearly 876,000 Weapons Registered in Switzerland
18 August 2017
Tribune de Genève
The Online Registry of Arms (CLRA) platform has catalogued thousands of weapons. We are far off the mark.
Some 876,000 rifles and pistols are currently listed on the Online Registry of Arms (CLRA) platform. They belong to 279,000 owners.
Asked by the ATS, Markus Röösli, head of the program "Harmonization of Swiss Police Informatics", confirmed these figures published by the Neue Zürcher Zeitung.
Military Weapons Not Included
However, they only give a partial... (GunPolicy.org)
Sudanese Government to Initiate Collection Campaign for Illegal Firearms
7 August 2017
Dabanga (Sudan)
This week, Second Vice-President Hasabo Abdelrahman will chair the first meeting with the five governors of Darfur about the disarmament campaign scheduled to start before the end of this year.
The Governor of North Darfur, Abdelwahid Yousif, said in a press statement on Sunday that Abdelrahman would arrive in El Fasher, capital of North Darfur, today, to discuss the state's plan for the collection of unlicensed arms with the governors of the five states of... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Knowledge of Gun Laws 'Unacceptable' - NZ Police
28 July 2017
NewsHub
Newshub has obtained an internal police document that shows a number of failures in the way police deal with firearms.
It shows their knowledge of the law around firearms is at an "unacceptable level", the licensing system is "no longer fit for purpose" and police and customs processes are "obsolete" and "leaving gaps".
Two women were shot dead on Wednesday by Whangarei man Quinn Patterson, who was amassed by an arsenal of illegal guns.
An admission by police chiefs... (GunPolicy.org)
United States,Botswana,Cook Islands,Fiji,Iceland,Ireland,Kiribati,Malawi,Marshall Islands,Nauru,New Zealand,Niue,Norway,Samoa,Solomon Islands,Tonga,Tuvalu,United Kingdom,Vanuatu,Virgin Islands (US)
The 19 Countries That Do Not Arm Their Police Officers
19 July 2017
CNN
A woman who called 911 to report a nearby crime was killed by a US police officer last weekend. The circumstances surrounding her death are still unclear.
The fatal shooting of Justine Ruszczyk, a dual Australian-US national who had settled in Minnesota in 2014, has made headlines in both her native Australia and her adopted home in Minneapolis – once again reigniting the all too familiar debate surrounding the role that firearms play in both law enforcement and in... (GunPolicy.org)
France Finds 100 Registered Gun Owners on Terror Watchlist
6 July 2017
Agence France Presse
Paris - Authorities in France have identified some 100 people believed to legally own firearms despite being an anti-terror watchlist, Interior Minister Gerard Collomb said on Wednesday.
The announcement comes two weeks after a known gun enthusiast rammed a car laden with weapons and gas canisters into a police van on Paris' Champs-Elysees avenue, the latest in a string of jihadist attacks to hit France since 2015.
The attacker, Adam Djaziri, was the only person... (GunPolicy.org)
Finland Streamlines Firearms Registration
26 June 2017
Sputnik News
While possession of firearms has long provoked heated discussions across the globe, for Finland it doesn't seem to be a matter for debate. With new gun laws, the Nordic country has simplified gun procurement to the extreme, effectively allowing firearm permit applications online and abolishing psychological evaluations and police interviews.
Starting from 2018, the process of applying for a gun permit in Finland will be as easy as shelling peas. Gun aficionados... (GunPolicy.org)
397 Charges for Former Sydney Gun Dealer
2 June 2017
Australian Associated Press
A former Sydney firearms dealer has been charged with almost 400 firearms and explosives offences including charges related to unregistered and unsecured weapons.
The 71-year-old man was charged on Wednesday after a two-year multi-agency investigation into a former dealership in Terrey Hills, during which a number of firearms and explosive material, including gunpowder were seized, although 78 firearms remain unaccounted for, police said.
The man has been charged with... (GunPolicy.org)
At What Age Is a Child Permitted to Fire a Gun in Australia?
4 May 2017
ABC News (Australia)
Despite the National Firearms Agreement which passed in just 12 days in response to the Port Arthur Massacre in 1996, there is no one national gun law and no single age at which a child can use a firearm across the states and territories.
Roanan Cornish was 12 years old when he first used a firearm.
The thirteen-year-old, who lives on a farm just outside of Bendigo in central Victoria, learned how to correctly handle a .22 calibre rifle as part of a firearm safety... (GunPolicy.org)
Government Raises Firearm Licence Fees in Uganda
25 April 2017
Observer (Kampala)
Government has increased license fees for individuals and companies importing firearms into the country.
Estimates of non-tax revenue (NTR) rates tabled before Parliament by the finance ministry show that gun importers and owners will part with Shs 5 million each.
Currently, any company which seeks a permit to acquire or import a firearm pays Shs 1 million per year. A private security company also pays Shs 200,000 for an application to import or acquire firearms.
The... (GunPolicy.org)
Putting Guns Away for Good: Can Japan eliminate firearms?
24 April 2017
Asia & the Pacific Policy Forum
A decline in private firearms ownership and no recognisable gun culture means that Japan is positioned to be the world's first country to reverse the gunpowder revolution, writes Aaron Karp.
Four-hundred years ago Japan eradicated virtually all firearms. Today the country may be on the cusp of an equally far-reaching, albeit far gentler, transformation.
Although Japan's private gun ownership rose during the 20th century, today's levels are not just small but rapidly... (GunPolicy.org)
Fight Against Arms Proliferation in Mauritania
12 April 2017
Authentique (Mauriania)
[Translated content]
The Public Authority has finally decided to act to curb the circulation and trade of arms in the country and particularly in Nouakchott! This is at least what we have learned from reliable sources. This was prompted by the death last week of a young resident of the Moughataa of Ryadh as a result of the explosion of a grenade he was handling, but also by the arrest last week of an officer of the National Guard, accused of having supplemented a... (GunPolicy.org)
29 December 2016
Deutsche Welle
"What do you mean, 'Where did I get the gun?'" Mladen can't really understand why I would ask that question. He is almost 30 and the pistol has been among the household effects of his Belgrade apartment since he can remember. It is an old Yugoslavian version of the famous Soviet Tokarev TT- 33, with a communist star engraved in the grip. "The pistol is from the front. My old man was in the army and got it as a present. He didn't have a gun permit, but who had something... (GunPolicy.org)
One Firearm for Every 16 Inhabitants in Spain [ES]
24 November 2016
Mundiario (Spain)
[Translated Summary: Spain ranks 18th in the global ranking of civilian firearm possession, with one firearm for every 16 inhabitants. To legally own a firearm, applicants must certify that they are going to use it for sport or hunting, they must pass an exam and a background check and present a medical certificate. To own a firearm for self defence, applicants must justify a risk or a threat.]
España, con una de las legislaciones más restrictivas del mundo en el uso... (GunPolicy.org)
Pentagon Beats Trump to Allow Private Guns on Military Bases
23 November 2016
The Trace (USA)
As a presidential candidate, Donald Trump vowed to use his executive authority to immediately scrap a longstanding rule that bars military personnel from carrying their own firearms on bases and at recruiting centers. Late last week, the Department of Defense took its own steps to loosen restrictions on private gun carry in new rules issued by the Pentagon.
A November 18 directive, approved by Deputy Secretary of Defense Robert Work, says base commanders "may grant... (GunPolicy.org)
Pentagon Relaxes Gun Carrying on US Military Premises [FR]
22 November 2016
Le Journal de Montréal
[Translated summary: The Pentagon has softened the rules that restricted military personnel carrying guns, as a consequence of a shooting in Chattanooga that left five soldiers dead. According to the new rules, military officers will be able to carry a private gun on their base or place of work but they will need authorisation from their superiors.]
Le Pentagone a assoupli les règles restreignant le port d'armes des militaires sur le territoire américain, une... (GunPolicy.org)
Private Gun Carrying Rules Eased on US Military Premises [ES]
22 November 2016
La Información (Dominican Republic)
[Translated Summary: After a fatal shooting at a recruiting centre, the Pentagon has softened its regulation of gun carrying by military personnel in American territory. The new regulation will allow commanders to authorize military personnel to carry "personal firearms (hidden or in sight) for protection and when the firearm is not linked to any official duty or activity."]
El Pentágono flexibilizó las reglas que restringían el porte de armas para los militares en... (GunPolicy.org)
Women Are Gearing Up! More Women Getting Guns in US [ES]
22 November 2016
Telemundo (USA)
[Translated Summary: According to an American news channel, more women are applying for background checks; gun shop owners also note that more and more women are purchasing firearms. The owner of a shooting range says 80% of the students are women. In addition, gun advocates point to statistics showing that, every year, 200,000 women are using firearms to defend themselves from a sexual assault.]
A pesar de que hoy en día los controles para la compra de armas son más... (GunPolicy.org)
US Gun Owners Plan to Eliminate Curbs on Ownership - NYT
22 November 2016
New York Times
HOUSTON — Before the election, gun rights activists were so worried Hillary Clinton would win the presidency that some of them bought extra ammunition and guns, fearing a crackdown on certain weapons, bullets and magazines.
They're not worried now. Instead, since the election of Donald J. Trump, gun advocates have been rejoicing, crowing about their political clout and plotting ways to eliminate many remaining curbs on gun ownership and use as they await one of the... (GunPolicy.org)
After Trump's Victory, Gun Sellers Rely On 'Black Friday' [FR]
21 November 2016
Les Echos (France)
[Translated summary: After the election of Donald Trump, one of the main American gun manufacturers, Smith & Wesson, saw its stock price fall by 15%. The reason is that gun enthusiasts were buying more firearms in case Hillary Clinton won. Now, sellers expect to recover during the 'Black Friday' but estimate that they have little chance of repeating the record numbers of last year.]
Il y a quelques semaines encore, nous étions dans une Amérique démocrate, ou le... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Control 'Eroded' in Canada, Now More Guns on the Streets
20 November 2016
Toronto Star (Ontario)
Weakened gun laws and how they're enforced have led to a spike in the number of restricted firearms in the hands of Canadians — and ultimately in hands of criminals, a leading gun-control advocate says.
Wendy Cukier, president of the Coalition for Gun Control, said relaxed licensing processes and legislative changes under the past Conservative government "eroded strict controls" that limited access to certain firearms.
The number of restricted firearms — a... (GunPolicy.org)
The Steps to Own a Firearm Legally in Mexico [ES]
19 November 2016
24 Horas (Mexico)
[Translated summary: Mexican law allows civilians to own a firearm for security and self-defence but only inside their own homes. The gun has to be registered and can only be a semi-automatic handgun with a calibre not higher than .38. Carrying hidden handguns is restricted to special cases.]
Aunque la iniciativa de reforma a la Ley Federal de Armas de Fuego y Explosivos no ha sido dictaminada al no encontrar respaldo de las fracciones parlamentarias en el Senado, el... (GunPolicy.org)
Half of Toronto's Crime Guns Come from Local Dealers, Owners
19 November 2016
Toronto Star (Ontario)
Danny Santapaga, a self-employed financial adviser, bought 14 guns on 10 different occasions over seven months.
Plumber Graham Jovanovic purchased nine firearms over five weeks. University student Justin Green obtained 23 handguns during a 22-month period, including 15 from one store. Security guard Andrew Winchester acquired 47 handguns in a six-month buying binge.
These Toronto men have no apparent connection to one another. But they share a common thread.
Each... (GunPolicy.org)
Trump Softens Gun Promises, Gun Rights Not a Priority [ES]
18 November 2016
Newsweek (USA)
[Translated Summary: During his presidential campaign Donald Trump promised to swiftly "unsign" the executive actions President Obama issued in January regarding background checks and to abolish gun-free zones at schools and on military bases. In addition, he promised to allow Americans to carry hidden handguns across all 50 states. However, after the election he softened his tone and it now appears that gun rights are mo longer a priority.]
A lo largo de sus casi 17... (GunPolicy.org)
NRA Fuels Gun Paranoia in the Age of Trump - Chicago Tribune
18 November 2016
Chicago Tribune
There were plenty of agitated and even hysterical reactions to Donald Trump's election victory, but none more surprising than the one expressed in a direct mail letter I got a couple of days afterward.
"Our worst nightmare is staring us right in the face," it declared. "The attacks will be hitting everywhere, every day." It invited me to fill out a survey. "By answering this survey today, you're drawing a line in the sand — making it clear to politicians across... (GunPolicy.org)
Why Is it so Easy to Openly Carry Loaded Rifles in Texas?
17 November 2016
KCBD (Texas), KFDA
Open carry has been legal in Texas for almost a year, but Amarillo law enforcement said they still see more long guns and rifles carried openly than hand guns and pistols.
The problem is the long guns and rifles don't require a license.
One of the most popular guns sold in Amarillo is the AR-15.
Gun experts tell us they're big sellers because they're versatile and can be used for sport and protection.
And unlike a handgun, they don't require any licensing or... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Background Checks Work, May Hamper Suicide Prevention
17 November 2016
Channel News Asia (Singapore), Reuters
Gun control laws that mandate a background check before a gun can be temporarily transferred to a friend or family member may interfere with suicide prevention efforts, researchers say.
The research team looked at what happens when people want to temporarily remove firearms from their home because they fear someone in the house might be considering a suicide attempt. In some states, they found, gun control laws may actually hamper the ability to easily transfer a gun... (GunPolicy.org)
Education to Reduce Gun Incidents in US Instead of Regulation
16 November 2016
Dallas Morning News (Texas), Opinion
I have had the privilege of competing in shotgun clay target tournaments across America and Europe for the last 40 years. I'm routinely in the company of hundreds of people, all carrying firearms and ammunition. I've fired several hundred thousand rounds in practice and competition. In all that time and experience, I have never seen nor heard of anyone being injured in a firearm- or shooting-related incident.
National data reflects that there are rarely firearm-related... (GunPolicy.org)
Stiffer Sentences for Illegal Gun Possession in Argentina [ES]
16 November 2016
La Nación (Argentina), Agencia DyN
[Translated Summary: Argentina's Chamber of Deputies approved a bill that sets more severe sentences for gun carrying and possession. For illegal possession, sentences can go from six months to eight years if the firearm has been modified from its original condition. And for illegal carrying, sentences can be from four to eight years, depending on the case.]
Cámara de Diputados aprobó hoy y giró al Senado un proyecto impulsado por el Frente Renovador y apoyado por... (GunPolicy.org)
Stricter US Gun Laws Linked to a Reduction in Homicide [FR]
16 November 2016
Tribune de Genève
[Translated summary: An analysis of 30 studies published since 1970 has concluded that stricter gun laws are linked to a reduction in homicide in the United States. Background checks and licensing are specially effective. Another study published by JAMA linked a Florida law that gives citizens the right to use a firearm if they feel in danger to an increase of 24% in the rate of homicide.]
Des lois plus strictes sur le contrôle de la circulation des armes à feu sont... (GunPolicy.org)
Should Carrying Hidden Handguns Be Legal in France? [FR]
15 November 2016
Femme Actuelle (France)
[Translated summary: In France, the use of a firearm for self-defence is strictly prohibited. Some advocate for the legalisation of firearms carry for civilians, claiming that a significant number of armed citizens in public spaces could prevent a terrorist attack. Others believe that legal carry is a false solution that could lead to a situation similar to that of the US, where 30,000 die every year victims of firearms.]
En France, l'usage d'une arme à feu pour se... (GunPolicy.org)
French Groups Advocate for a Right to Possess Guns [FR]
15 November 2016
Le Figaro (France)
[Translated summary: Following the attacks targeting France after Charlie Hebdo, several groups are advocating for the right of civilians to arm themselves. Membership of shooting clubs also continues to increase. Currently it is forbidden for a civilian to own a firearm without a hunting permit or a licence from the French Shooting Federation.]
Avec la longue liste d'attaques ayant visé la France depuis Charlie Hebdo, des voix se font entendre pour permettre aux... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Destroys 5,250 Seized Guns to Slow Armed Violence
15 November 2016
Washington Post, Associated Press
NAIROBI — Kenya's deputy president on Tuesday set ablaze more than 5,250 firearms seized by authorities to discourage the circulation of illegal weapons in a country battling extremist violence.
Deputy President William Ruto presided over the burning of rifles and pistols in three stacks about 15 feet high. They were recovered in this East African country over the past nine years, Ruto said.
Most of the firearms were collected through voluntary surrender, others... (GunPolicy.org)
Syria,Iraq,Slovakia,European Union
Europe Split on Reforms and Regulations to Curb Gun Violence
14 November 2016
EUObserver (Belgium)
EU lawmakers are meeting on Tuesday (15 November) for another round of backroom talks to curb gun violence and prevent terrorists from acquiring weapons on the black market.
Debates around the European Commission's EU firearms directive reform, proposed in the aftermath the Paris November terrorist attacks, appears to be advancing as positions converge between the two co-legislatures at the European Parliament and the Council, representing member states.
"There is a... (GunPolicy.org)
One Gun for Every Eight Inhabitants in Ourense, Spain [ES]
14 November 2016
Faro de Vigo (España)
[Translated Summary: There are almost 3 million firearms circulating in Spain. In the city of Ourense there are over 37,000 firearms registered, an average of one gun for every eight inhabitants. Most of them, over 31,000, are shotguns and rifles for hunting. There are 26,000 licences on issue, but 10,000 more registered firearms.]
España no es, ni de lejos, Estados Unidos, cuya Segunda Enmienda de la Constitución brinda el derecho a portar armas y donde un lobby... (GunPolicy.org)
Stronger US Gun Laws Linked to Lower Gun Homicide Rates
14 November 2016
EurekAlert (New York)
Stronger firearm laws are associated with reductions in firearm homicide rates, concludes a narrative review published in the November 14 issue of JAMA Internal Medicine.
Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital reviewed all available articles published in peer-reviewed journals from January 1970 to August 2016 that focused specifically on the connection between firearm homicide and firearm laws. Of the 582 abstracts found, only 34 met the criteria for inclusion.... (GunPolicy.org)
US States with Tighter Gun Laws Have Fewer Homicides [ES]
14 November 2016
La Información (Dominican Republic)
[Translated Summary: According to a US study, states with tighter firearms laws show a higher decrease in firearm deaths. The most successful laws are those ones which improve background checks for potential buyers and require a permit to buy a firearm, among others.]
Leyes más estrictas para controlar la circulación de armas de fuego están relacionadas con una reducción de los homicidios en Estados Unidos, concluye un análisis de más de 30 estudios publicados... (GunPolicy.org)
US Gun-carrying Restrictions May Be Wiped Out Under Trump
14 November 2016
Guardian
With Donald Trump in the White House, tourists from other states may soon be able to bring their guns to shops of Fifth Avenue, the plaza at Rockefeller Center and other New York City sights.
Advocates say they expect Congress to finally pass a sweeping gun rights law that could dismantle local gun-carrying restrictions in states including New York, New Jersey, Maryland, California and Hawaii.
These changes could come soon. If Congress passes a federal right-to-carry... (GunPolicy.org)
Marianas to Register Firearms After Court Nixes Gun Controls
14 November 2016
Guns (US)
Despite a federal ruling issued in September that struck down a handgun registration scheme in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, local lawmakers have passed another.
After a series of lawsuits ended the U.S. territory's total ban on handgun ownership, the local government adopted the Special Act for Firearms Enforcement earlier this year. The law imposed sweeping gun control measures, licensing schemes and strict rules regarding how one carries and... (GunPolicy.org)
Honduras Gun Control Law Still Stalled After Two Years [ES]
13 November 2016
La Prensa (Honduras)
[Translated summary: The Possession, Carrying and Control of Firearms, Explosives and Ammunition Law has been stalled for more than two years in Honduras. Deputies explain that the new legislation is stricter than the old law and aims to register all legal guns and remove illegal arms from circulation. Official data indicates that Honduras has 400,000 registered and more than 1 million illegal guns.]
Tegucigalpa -- La Ley de Tenencia, Portación y Control de Armas de... (GunPolicy.org)
US Halts Gun Exports to Jamaica as Irregularities Emerge
10 November 2016
Jamaica Observer
KINGSTON — The United States Embassy says that in light of recent events concerning Jamaica's Firearms Licensing Authority (FLA) they will be reviewing the firearm export licensing approval process.
In a release this afternoon, the embassy said that during this review, there will be a temporary pause on firearm exports as they request further guidance from Washington on the long-term status of export licenses for firearms from the US destined for Jamaica.
Earlier... (GunPolicy.org)
Many Australian Domestic Abusers Get Their Guns Back
8 November 2016
Sydney Morning Herald
Scores of Victorians who had firearm licences revoked after being accused of stalking and beating their partners were handed their guns back last year, raising fears women are being put at real risk of harm or death at the hands of violent ex-partners.
According to previously unpublished data, 87 people who'd previously been banned from owning or using a firearm were granted approval by the courts to have their firearm licences reinstated in 2015-16, a rate of more... (GunPolicy.org)
Over 100 Controversial Adler Shotguns Registered in Tasmania
6 November 2016
Mercury (Tasmania)
More than 100 five-shot Adler shotguns are registered in Tasmania, Police Minister Rene Hidding has divulged.
And a simple "do it yourself" kit available online can see the five-shot 12 gauge converted into an 11-round rapid fire shotgun.
It follows concerns by anti-gun advocates about the number of firearms in Tasmania and the proliferation of small arsenals across the state.
The Adler lever-action shotgun rose to notoriety after its Turkish manufacturer released a... (GunPolicy.org)
New Legal Guns in Tasmania Jumped from 57 to 1500 in 2016
5 November 2016
Mercury (Tasmania)
Almost 1500 extra firearms have come into Tasmania over the past year — a massive jump from the previous 12 months when there were just 57.
It comes as police figures show some owners are stockpiling firearms across the state.
Anti-gun activists say the figures are alarming but firearm owners say there is nothing to fear.
About 100 individuals, excluding collectors or dealers, possess arsenals of 20 or more firearms, according to the data.
The largest registered... (GunPolicy.org)
Shooting Clubs Show 38% Membership Growth in France [FR]
4 November 2016
BFMTV (France)
[Translated summary: Amid fear of terrorist attacks in France, membership of shooting clubs jumped from 145,365 to 201,450 between 2011 and 2016, an increase of 38%. Firearm seizures also increased: there were 5,000 in 2014, 6,000 in 2015 and 5,000 so far this year. Nowadays, France has 4.4 million declared guns, and, depending on the source, between 1 and 8 million illegal firearms.]
D'après une enquête de L'Obs, de plus en plus de Français se dotent d'armes à... (GunPolicy.org)
Senegal Has Issued 1,000 New Gun Licences This Year [FR]
3 November 2016
Senxibar (Senegal)
[Translated summary: To own a firearm in Senegal, applicants must provide a copy of their national ID, criminal record, health certificate, 4 photographs, pay a fee of 2,000 francs and pass an interview to see if their activities are dangerous and establish their need for a firearm. According to official data, 1,000 licences have been issued so far in 2016.]
La sécurité oui,… la tradition et le prestige aussi
La sécurité est le premier motif invoqué pour... (GunPolicy.org)
Guyana President Aims to Curb Both Legal and Illegal Guns
3 November 2016
Demerara Waves (Guyana)
President David Granger on Wednesday said he wants the number of illegal and legal guns to be drastically reduced, leaving firearms mainly in the hands of police and soldiers.
"The Minister of Public Security and I are reducing the frequency or the ease or controlling the ease with which some people can get weapons," he said on this week's edition of the television programme, "Public Interest."
The President said a corps of wardens, with law enforcement powers, would... (GunPolicy.org)
Celebratory Shooting Illegal in India, Gun Licence May Be Taken
2 November 2016
Hindustan Times (Lucknow)
Firing in the air while celebrating marriages, religious functions or social gatherings is illegal and may result in the cancellation of the licence and initiation of legal action, Delhi Police told the High Court on Wednesday.
A division bench headed by Chief Justice G. Rohini was told by Delhi Police's Arms Licensing Unit that it takes prompt and certain action against offenders on receipt of any complaint of misuse of the firearms.
The firearm licences are issued... (GunPolicy.org)
New Research Confirms Guns on Campus Don't Stop Shooters
2 November 2016
Mother Jones (USA)
Eight states currently have laws that allow people to carry guns on college campuses. In 24 others, individual colleges can decide whether to allow firearms on the premises. The primary rationale for these laws, according to their supporters, is safety: School shooters, they say, are less likely to succeed in their attacks if students and teachers are armed and able to fight back.
But a new study from Johns Hopkins University shows that campus carry laws are unlikely... (GunPolicy.org)
In China, Life Sentence or Even Death for Replica Firearms [ES]
2 November 2016
W Radio (Colombia), EFE News Agency
[Translated Summary: China's strict legislation on firearms can cause firearm replica owners to be accused of trafficking, and go to jail. Even a life sentence or the death penalty are possible in severe cases. The definition of a firearm includes any weapon that can shoot with a force of more than 1.8 joules per square centimetre. This prohibits many replicas.]
La estricta legislación china sobre armas de fuego puede provocar que los propietarios de réplicas sean... (GunPolicy.org)
Puerto Rico Reaffirms the Constitutionality of Its Gun Law [ES]
1 November 2016
Primera Hora (Puerto Rico)
[Translated summary: The Supreme Court of Puerto Rico reaffirmed the constitutionality of the Firearms Law. Last year, a judge intended to declare as unconstitutional the articles related to licensing, in an attempt to eliminate background checks and lower the minimum age to own firearms. The Secretary of Justice explained that eliminating these articles would have allowed anyone to own firearms indiscriminately.]
El Tribunal Supremo de Puerto Rico reiteró ayer la... (GunPolicy.org)
California Gun Control to Licence All Ammunition Buyers - NYT
1 November 2016
New York Times
California has the nation's strictest gun laws. There is a waiting period, a written test and a number of restrictions on guns and gear. Some voters pondering Proposition 63 have asked: Haven't we done enough?
Gavin Newsom, the lieutenant governor, says no. He's developed the initiative that would push the state's gun limits even further.
Under Proposition 63, ammunition purchasers would be treated similar to gun purchasers. Before a Californian could buy even a... (GunPolicy.org)
Stricter Gun Control is America Is Inevitable, Says Researcher
1 November 2016
Guns (US)
It doesn't matter which candidate is elected the next leader of the free world next Tuesday, stricter gun control is inevitable — at least according to one onlooker.
Philip Alpers is the founding director of GunPolicy.org, an organization devoted to publishing facts and figures on gun violence and gun control. It's hosted by the Sydney School of Public Health at the University of Sydney in Australia. Alpers says it doesn't matter what Hillary Clinton or Donald Trump... (GunPolicy.org)
British Police Fear Stolen Guns May Fuel Terrorist Attacks [ES]
31 October 2016
ABC News (Spain)
[Translated summary: British Police fear a terrorist attack with firearms in the UK. With 800 licensed firearms lost each year, these guns could be sold by gangs to Jihadist terrorists. During the last two years, police disrupted 10 attempted attacks, and in half of them terrorists were going to use firearms.]
La policía británica, en una rara declaración, ha reconocido que teme un ataque islamista con armas de fuego en ciudades del país, al modo de los que sufrió... (GunPolicy.org)
Over 1.5 Million Legal, 4 Million Illicit Guns in Argentina [ES]
31 October 2016
Noticias y Protagonistas (Argentina)
[Translated summary: There are 1,541,497 registered firearms and 979,508 licensed gun owners in Argentina. The country has four gun factories that manufactured 74,983 firearms between January and August 2016. 13,940 firearms were imported and 45,836 exported in the same period. It is estimated that there are between 1.5 million and 4 million illicit firearms. Between 1997 and 2013 there were 38,002 gun homicides and 13,672 suicides. In 2013, 71.1% of homicides were... (GunPolicy.org)
11 Million Illegal Guns in Mexico, Only 234,738 Seized [ES]
31 October 2016
Milenio (Mexico)
[Translated summary: 234,738 firearms were seized in Mexico in 18 years. In the same time there were 111,453 gun homicides. A report by the Chamber of Deputies estimates that there are 11 million illegal firearms in the country, most of them trafficked from the US, while between 2.8 and 4 million firearms are legally owned.]
Desde la administración de Vicente Fox y hasta el gobierno de Enrique Peña Nieto han sido decomisadas 234 mil 738 armas de diferente calibre en... (GunPolicy.org)
Trump or Clinton, Stricter Gun Control Is Inevitable in America
31 October 2016
CNN, Opinion
It's impossible to run for President without having a firm position on gun control. For every candidate in every election campaign, it inevitably becomes a dividing line.
And 2016 is no different. At various stages, Donald Trump has held differing positions on the matter, but has been sufficiently in favor of protecting the second amendment to secure the support of the NRA. Meanwhile, Hillary Clinton, while claiming to respect the second amendment, has made clear that... (GunPolicy.org)