Gun Policy News
Gun amnesties mentioned in mass media
Serbia,Australia,United States
Serbians Hand In Thousands of Guns After Two Mass Killings
12 May 2023
Washington Post
Serbians handed in thousands of guns in the first three days of an amnesty aimed at disarming the country following two mass killings last week, including one targeting schoolchildren.
Almost 6,000 unregistered weapons, 300,000 rounds of ammunition, and 470 pieces of mines and explosive devices have been voluntarily surrendered nationwide since Monday, the country's interior ministry said Thursday in an Instagram post promoting the measure.
President Aleksandar Vucic... (GunPolicy.org)
First Year of New Australian Firearm Amnesty Nets 17,000 Guns
21 January 2023
Guardian
More than 17,000 weapons, including a Vietnam war-era flamethrower, were surrendered in the first year of Australia's national permanent firearms amnesty.
States and territories struck an agreement with the Commonwealth in 2019 to establish an enduring amnesty allowing gun owners to hand in unregistered, illegal, or unwanted firearms without punishment or investigation.
The amnesty began in mid-2021, after Covid-related delays, aiming to claw back some of the roughly... (GunPolicy.org)
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)
Police U-turn on Firearm Amnesty
21 October 2021
New Era (Namibia)
Despite assurances by police chief Sebastian Ndeitunga and safety and security minister Albert Kawana that no one will be prosecuted for handing in unlicensed firearms and ammunition, an about-turn saw police announcing those who surrendered firearms used in the commission of a crime will indeed be arrested and prosecuted.
When he announced the amnesty earlier this year, Ndeitunga was quoted as saying "Cabinet endorsed the month of September as the amnesty month to... (GunPolicy.org)
South Africa Destroys Almost 25,000 Firearms During Amnesty Periods
8 July 2021
Times (South Africa)
The police have destroyed almost 25,000 firearms, including weapons voluntarily handed over during the two previous amnesty periods, and those that were either confiscated or surrendered to the state.
The firearms were destroyed at Cape Gate Steel in Vanderbijlpark, Gauteng, after a notice was published in the Government Gazette in June, with 24,910 firearms intended to be destroyed.
"About half of the firearms that have been destroyed were handed in during the... (GunPolicy.org)
Permanent Gun Amnesty Declared in Australia
1 July 2021
Sydney Morning Herald (Australia)
Australians will be able to surrender their illegal or unregistered firearms without fear of being fined or prosecuted under a new nationwide permanent amnesty that begins on Thursday.
The first rolling program of its type will allow anyone in possession of an illicit or unwanted firearm to hand it over to authorities in a renewed attempt by state and federal law enforcement agencies to reduce the tens of thousands of illicit weapons that fall into criminal hands.
The... (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)
South African Police Destroy 20,000 Collected Firearms
4 November 2019
The South African
The last national firearm destruction took place on the 17th of April 2019 wherein over 30 000 firearms were destroyed.
The South African Police Service plans to destroy 20 000 firearms on Tuesday morning by melting them, police spokesperson Colonel Brenda Muridili has announced. The destruction will take place in Vereeniging, Gauteng.
The firearms were seized by, surrendered to and forfeited to the state.
"To stamp the authority of the State the police have to... (GunPolicy.org)
NSW Authorities Collect 8,300 Firearms
25 October 2018
Advocate (Hobart) / Australian Associated Press
Police hope the 8300 weapons surrendered to NSW authorities during the latest gun amnesty will put a dent in the killing power of the state's criminals.
More than 1300 rifles, 400 shotguns and thousands of handguns were surrendered over the three months, NSW Police said on Thursday.
However, Australia-wide there are still more privately owned guns and illicit firearms in circulation today than ever before.
University of Sydney gunpolicy.org research estimates there... (GunPolicy.org)
Samoan Police Launch New Gun Amnesty
1 October 2018
Samoa Observer
Members of the public who will use a two-months gun amnesty to bring in their unregistered and illegal guns will get a $50 Electric Power Corporation voucher.
This was announced yesterday when the Police launched a two-month long amnesty in a bid to collect unregistered and illegal guns. The amnesty ends on 30 November 2018.
This is the third amnesty under the leadership of Police Commissioner, Fuiavaili'ili Egon Keil.
Acting Prime Minister, Tuitama Dr. Leao... (GunPolicy.org)
Samoan Police to Destroy 300 Guns
5 July 2018
Samoa Observer
The police will destroy close to 300 illegal firearms that they recovered during their operations.
Commissioner Fuiavailiili Egon Keil said questions remain on how the firearms were brought into the country as Samoa does not manufacture weapons or ammunition.
"This coming Thursday (today) at the police headquarter at 10 o'clock we have little less than 300 firearms that we will be destroying, just like what we did back in 2015. So these weapons will be destroyed... (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)
2017 Australian Gun Amnesty Results by Jurisdiction - SSAA
9 November 2017
Sporting Shooters' Association of Australia
The inclusion of gun dealers and an option to register or sell legal firearms has paved the way for high participation rates in the national firearms amnesty. The SSAA successfully lobbied the Federal Government to base the three-month amnesty on the successful Queensland version, with most states and territories adopting this proven model.
From the available data, it is clear the jurisdictions that allowed dealers to process firearms at gunshops and enabled licence... (GunPolicy.org)
Australia's Firearms Amnesty Collects More Than 50,000 Guns
5 October 2017
Guardian
More than 50,000 firearms will be destroyed after being handed in during the three-month national firearms amnesty.
The final figures, released on Friday, showed that the number of surrendered firearms doubled in the final month of the amnesty from 25,999 to 51,461 by 30 September.
Almost half were surrendered in New South Wales, which received 24,965 firearms despite collecting a further 67,323 in three other gun amnesties since the first national one in... (GunPolicy.org)
Australians Turn In 12,500 Guns as National Amnesty Opens
11 August 2017
New York Times
SYDNEY, Australia — The first numbers for the National Gun Amnesty are in, and more than 12,500 unregistered firearms have been surrendered since it started last month, Michael Keenan, the minister for justice, announced on Thursday.
The amnesty, which is running from July 1 to Sept. 30, allows people to hand unwanted or unregistered firearms over to the police and to licensed firearm dealers without fear of prosecution. Ordinarily, the possession of an unregistered... (GunPolicy.org)
Latest Australian Gun Amnesty in Full Swing — But Why?
12 July 2017
New York Times
On July 1, the government introduced the National Firearms Amnesty — a three-month program that will give Australians the chance to hand in unregistered firearms without consequence or cost.
Australia is a different country now, but it's important to remember: Over 18 years starting in the late 1970s, there were 13 mass shootings. The deadliest was the Port Arthur massacre in Tasmania, which killed 35 people in 1996. That year, the relatively new prime minister, John... (GunPolicy.org)
2017 Amnesty Will Yield Questionable Results in Australia
18 June 2017
The Conversation
After 18 months of false starts, Australia is about to hold another gun amnesty for three months from July 1.
Last week, Justice Minister Michael Keenan claimed the amnesty would take illegal guns off Australian streets. He went on to link the amnesty with terrorism, citing the Lindt Cafe siege and the murder of Curtis Cheng as examples.
In a time when the spectre of terrorism is increasingly used as both a shield to prevent scrutiny of policies and a sword to attack... (GunPolicy.org)
A National Amnesty Will Not Rid Australia of Violent Gun Crime - Samara McPhedran
18 June 2017
The Conversation, Opinion
After 18 months of false starts, Australia is about to hold another gun amnesty for three months from July 1.
Last week, Justice Minister Michael Keenan claimed the amnesty would take illegal guns off Australian streets. He went on to link the amnesty with terrorism, citing the Lindt Cafe siege and the murder of Curtis Cheng as examples.
In a time when the spectre of terrorism is increasingly used as both a shield to prevent scrutiny of policies and a sword to attack... (GunPolicy.org)
Cambodian Authorities Destroy Homemade Guns from Amnesty
14 June 2017
Khmer Times
Police in Preah Vihear province have collected 378 homemade rifles since launching a gun amnesty at the start of the year.
Deputy provincial police chief Colonel Sam Sameoun said officers had spoken to people in the area to educate them about illegal weapon possession, warning that homemade guns often malfunction, injuring or killing their owners.
Following the outreach work, he said officers managed to convince many residents to hand in their homemade rifles,... (GunPolicy.org)
Namibia Extends Gun Amnesty for Another Three Months [FR]
17 November 2016
Africa Posts
[Translated summary: The Namibian firearms and ammunition amnesty that was initially going to last three months has been extended until 18 February, 2017. Since the start of the program, 925 firearms, 44,000 ammunition and 66 explosives have been recovered.]
WINDHOEK — L'amnistie de trois mois sur les armes à feu et les munitions en Namibie, initialement censée avoir pris fin vendredi, a été prolongée jusqu'au 18 février 2017.
Le responsable des relations... (GunPolicy.org)
180 Firearms Surrendered in Gun Amnesty in Swiss Town [FR]
12 November 2016
24 Heures (Switzerland)
[Translated summary: 180 firearms were surrendered to the authorities in the Swiss municipality of Hinwil during a gun amnesty. Among the firearms were rifles, assault weapons, pistols, revolvers and 60 kilos of ammunition.]
Une action contre la circulation des armes à feu et des munitions a eu lieu samedi matin à Hinwil (ZH). Chacun pouvait remettre les pièces en sa possession à la police zurichoise. Au total, 180 armes à feu ont été transmises aux autorités.... (GunPolicy.org)
Over 1,000 Guns Surrendered During Amnesty in B.C., Canada
10 November 2016
Times-Colonist (British Columbia)
More than 1,000 guns are off the streets after a province-wide gun amnesty allowed people to turn in their firearms, no questions asked.
The province, the RCMP and municipal departments are to announce the results of the October gun amnesty at a press conference today in Surrey. Central Saanich Police Chief Les Sylven, president of the B.C. Association of Chiefs of Police, said Wednesday that more than 1,000 firearms had been turned in.
Nanaimo RCMP recovered 44... (GunPolicy.org)
UK County Launches Gun Amnesty - Essex Police
31 October 2016
East Anglian Daily Times (UK)
Essex Police today launched a two-week firearms amnesty where members of the public can surrender unlicensed or unwanted guns or ammunition without fear of prosecution.
The amnesty will run from 8am today until 5pm on Friday, November 11, and during this time people are encouraged to hand in firearms, ammunition, imitation firearms and air or gas-powered weapons to one of eight police stations in the county.
Anyone surrendering firearms during this period will not... (GunPolicy.org)
Argentina Extends National Gun Amnesty for Another Year [ES]
24 October 2016
Hoy (Argentina)
[Translated summary: Argentina's government extended the deadline for the national disarmament program until the end of 2017. In the country there are 1,200,000 registered firearms, but it's estimated that there are 3 million more undeclared and in the hands of criminals. According to official data, since 2007 the program received 175,000 handguns and shotguns that were disabled and destroyed.]
El Gobierno promulgó la ley sancionada en el Congreso que extiende la... (GunPolicy.org)
Namibia: 812 Illegal Firearms Surrendered in Gun Amnesty
24 October 2016
Namibian (Windhoek)
More than 660 firearms were surrendered in the Khomas region as part of the firearms and ammunition amnesty declared at the end of August this year.
The amnesty ends on 18 November.
Omusati is second on the list with 31 firearms surrendered, while //Karas where 29 firearms were surrendered, is third; and Otjozondjupa with 27 is fourth.
At the top of the surrendered ammunition is Otjozondjupa with 4 386; followed by Oshikoto with 2 790, and Ohangwena with 2 022.
Ten... (GunPolicy.org)
Hundreds of Guns Turned In so Far During Amnesty in Canada
21 October 2016
Metro News (Canada)
Two weeks in and police departments throughout British Columbia have already collected hundreds of firearms during October's gun amnesty month.
The gun amnesty drive allows people to contact local police and dispose of any unwanted registered or unregistered weapons without the fear of prosecution, as long as they have not been used in a criminal offence.
During the first two weeks of the initiative, BC RCMP said more than 480 firearms and replicas have been turned... (GunPolicy.org)
Australian Gun Lobby, Leyonhjelm Shot Themselves in the Foot
21 October 2016
The New Daily (Australia)
Adler Arms Corp, the Turkish manufacturer of the A110 lever-action rapid-fire 12 gauge shotgun, will not legally be entitled to distribute its product to Australian consumers for the indefinite future.
After assembled state and Commonwealth ministers failed to reach consensus on Friday about an appropriate risk assessed classification for the Adler, it appears the gun lobby, in particular Liberal Democrat cross bench Senator David Leyonhjelm has shot itself in the... (GunPolicy.org)
Australia to Launch New National Gun Amnesty in 2017 [ES]
21 October 2016
El Nuevo Herald, Associated Press
[Translated summary: Australia will allow owners to hand in illegal firearms without penalty, from the middle of 2017. The amnesty will be the first national long gun amnesty since the 1996 buyback in response to a mass shooting that left 35 dead. The Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission reported that there could be 300-600,000 unregistered firearms.]
CANBERRA -- Australia permitirá a los propietarios de armas entregar armas de fuego ilegales sin ser... (GunPolicy.org)
Australia Agrees to First National Gun Amnesty in 20 Years
21 October 2016
Associated Press
Australia will allow gun owners to hand in illegal firearms without penalty next year as concerns grow over gun crimes involving such weapons, a federal minister said Friday.
Australia's police and justice ministers agreed at a meeting to start a nationwide gun amnesty from the middle of 2017, Justice Minister Michael Keenan said.
"Australia is world-renowned for the strength of our firearm laws, but illegal firearms do remain a deadly weapon of choice for organized... (GunPolicy.org)
Australia Extends Ban on Adler Rapid-fire Lever Action Shotgun
20 October 2016
ABC News (Australia)
Police ministers met in Melbourne this morning to consider a new classification for the lever-action shotgun.
There is currently a ban in place on Adler shotguns that have a magazine capacity of more than five rounds.
The ABC understands concerns were raised that tightened restrictions on the seven-shot Adler would struggle to pass Parliament in certain states.
The Australian Federal Police and Justice Minister Michael Keenan said there was a "majority" view but that... (GunPolicy.org)
In Buyback, Halifax Police Swap 152 Guns for Bus Tickets [FR]
4 October 2016
ICI Radio Canada
[Translated summary: Halifax regional municipality states that its gun amnesty program has been a success. In two weeks police collected 152 firearms, 123 of which were long guns, 18 handguns and 11 pellet guns. Owners who gave up their arms received 50 bus tickets.]
La Municipalité régionale d'Halifax affirme que son plus récent programme d'amnistie pour les armes à feu illégales a été couronné de succès. En deux semaines, du 12 au 23 septembre, la police... (GunPolicy.org)
Australia Prepares New Gun Amnesty as City Shootings Rise
26 September 2016
Nikkei Asian Review
SYDNEY -- A crazed gunman shot dead 35 people at Port Arthur, a historic tourist site in the Australian island state of Tasmania in April 1996, prompting then-Prime Minister John Howard to outlaw military-style assault weapons and introduce a gun buyback scheme as part of a tough set of national firearm laws.
Australia's gun homicide and suicide rates have both fallen markedly in the intervening 20 years and there have been no mass shootings (defined as five or more... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Offer Gun Amnesty, Free Home Pickup in Canada
22 September 2016
CTV News (Toronto)
Families across B.C. with unwanted guns and other weapons in their homes are being given a chance to give them up, no questions asked, for the month of October.
Police announced the amnesty program on Thursday, promising immunity for anyone who wants to turn in their documented or undocumented firearms.
"We recognize that some law-abiding British Columbians may find themselves in possession of firearms and other weapons that they're not legally entitled to," said... (GunPolicy.org)
Has Australia Become Complacent About Gun Control?
21 September 2016
Huffington Post (Australia)
It's been 20 years since the Port Arthur massacre, and the landmark gun control legislation introduced by the Howard government soon after. Two decades on from the buy back scheme which saw 700,000 guns taken off streets and destroyed, the Australian Greens have named senator Lee Rhiannon as their new gun control spokesperson. It is a new portfolio for the party, and Rhiannon herself said she wasn't sure if any other party had named a specific gun control portfolio... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Amnesty Operation Launched in French Réunion [FR]
19 September 2016
France TV Info
[Translated summary: An amnesty operation has begun in the French Indian Ocean territory of Réunion. Citizens are invited to surrender their firearms, without any sanction until December 15. In past operations, 820 firearms and 31,053 rounds of ammunition were collected in Martinique, and 86 firearms and 3,800 rounds of ammunition in French Polynesia.]
Le but est de réduire le nombre d'armes en circulation de façon illégale à La Réunion. Les particuliers sont... (GunPolicy.org)
Australia Amnesty Hopes to Recover Thousands of Illegal Guns
14 September 2016
Sydney Morning Herald
Justice Minister Michael Keenan says he expects that at least "thousands" of illegal guns to be handed over in a planned national firearms amnesty.
But the nature of the illicit market meant it was hard to know how many owners of illegal guns would actually be prepared to give them up, as opposed to serious criminals who will want to hang onto their weapons, he said.
Mr Keenan has confirmed Fairfax Media reports on Wednesday that the federal government will soon nail... (GunPolicy.org)
Australia Plans New National Gun Amnesty, Tougher Penalties
14 September 2016
Guardian
The Turnbull government will begin a national gun amnesty after a wave of gun-related crime across the country. It also plans to increase penalties for gun smuggling.
The justice minister, Michael Keenan, said the gun amnesty had the support of the Nationals and would allow Australians to hand in illegal guns without penalty. It would not be a buyback.
He said the details of the amnesty were yet to be worked out but had in-principle support from his state and... (GunPolicy.org)
Chasing a Silver Bullet: How Melbourne Became a Gun City (3)
13 September 2016
Age (Melbourne)
He was 22 years old the first time he got caught with a gun. Police chased him down on foot and recovered a stash of drugs and a revolver. He was charged and released on bail.
Five months later, he would be caught with more drugs and another gun - this time a .22 calibre semi-automatic pistol.
For these crimes, he got nine months jail and a community corrections order.
Angelo's* next run in with the law - five months after his release from prison - would see the now... (GunPolicy.org)
New National Gun Amnesty to Be Announced in Australia
13 September 2016
Age (Melbourne)
State and federal ministers and attorney-generals requested an amnesty be considered by senior officials in the National Justice and Policing Senior Officials Group last year.
These officials gave a unanimous in-principle support for an amnesty last month.
State ministers must agree to proceed, however, support for an amnesty is strong and it is understood the timing will be settled before the end of the year.
Victoria's Police Minister Lisa Neville said the state... (GunPolicy.org)
New Zealand's Gun Owners Say Registration Won't Stop Crime
26 August 2016
Scoop (New Zealand)
Millions of Tax Payers Money Spent on Gun Registration Will Not Affect Criminals
The Council of Licenced Firearms owners are disappointed at the comments suggested in Parliament to enact registration of all firearms. COLFO's Chairman Paul Clark has previously advised the Law & Order Select Committee that registration of firearms will not stop criminals using them. "People that do not own firearms must be asking how can listing a firearm on a database stop criminal use?... (GunPolicy.org)
Expert Says Yet Another Gun Amnesty Will Fail in Ghana
16 August 2016
Joy Online (Ghana)
A Security Analyst says a 32-day amnesty granted by government to persons in possession of unlicensed weapons to voluntarily turn in the weapons would not yield the desired result.
Dr Kwesi Aning, who is with the Kofi Annan Peace Keeping Training Center, said just like two similar initiatives undertaken by government in the past, the current intervention will also fail.
"It is not going to make any difference. What is the basis for the amnesty? The people who smuggled... (GunPolicy.org)
Scores of Gun Licences to Be Revoked in Guyana
14 August 2016
Demerara Waves (Guyana)
Scores of gun licenses are about to be revoked in the coming months, in keeping with a decision by the government to weed out those that had been wrongfully issued, no longer required or are in the hands of mentally unstable persons, Public Security Minister, Khemraj Ramjattan said Sunday.
"It would be a massive, massive exercise so that is the difficulty but for the sake of the security of this nation I, as minister, will not make the massiveness of the exercise an... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Registration, Amnesty Launched in Two Libyan Cities
11 August 2016
Libya Herald
In a move driven possibly more by hope than expectation, the military police in Marj have unveiled a gun amnesty programme for residents to encourage them to hand over their weapons or register them.
Those in possession of firearms have 30 days in which to hand them in if they are heavy weapons, or register them for their personal protection, if they are classed as "light".
The move follows a similar one in Tobruk, where residents have until 15 September to hand in or... (GunPolicy.org)
Canadian Province Collected 5,000 Guns in Amnesties 2006-13
16 June 2016
CTV News (Toronto)
For one month this fall, British Columbians are being given a chance to turn in old guns – including restricted and prohibited firearms – to ensure they never make it into the hands of criminals.
The province-wide amnesty program was announced Thursday by the Ministry of Public Safety, which said people will be welcome to unload any unwanted guns, other weapons and ammunition for the entire month of October.
"Stemming the flow of illegal weapons to gangs and the... (GunPolicy.org)
Toronto Confronts Worst Gun Death Toll in More Than a Decade
8 June 2016
Toronto Star (Ontario)
Toronto is on track to record its worst year for gun deaths in more than a decade.
Not since 2005, dubbed "The Year of the Gun," have more Toronto residents died by a bullet at such a pace.
This year's first homicide came on Jan. 4, when 17-year-old Joseph Petit was shot dead minutes after beginning a conversation with two men who showed up at his home in the Victoria and Danforth Aves. area.
His mother, Ana Pavao, found her son lying on the street near their... (GunPolicy.org)
Failed Gun Amnesty Blamed for Firearm Violence in Nigeria
6 June 2016
Today (Nigeria)
The rising cases of armed struggles, including militancy championed by the Niger Delta Avengers, have been blamed on the poor implementation of the Presidential Amnesty Programme and proliferation of Small Arms and Lights Weapons in the country.
This was disclosed in Abuja at the weekend by the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Small Arms and Light Weapons, Ambassador Emmanuel Imohe, during the Inter-Ministerial Roundtable on the ATT in Nigeria organised in... (GunPolicy.org)
137 Guns Handed Over to Police in Lancashire, UK
22 April 2016
Lancashire Evening Post
Thousands of rounds of ammunition have been taken off the streets as part of a county-wide firearms surrender.
A total of 3,737 pieces of ammo were handed over to police in Lancashire Police's Western Division which includes Blackpool, Fylde and Wyre.
Officers in the division also received three live rifles, six live handguns, six shotguns and a total of 15 air powered weapons.
The ammunition handed over in the west of the county made up almost 90 per cent of the... (GunPolicy.org)
More Than 800 Firearms Surrendered in UK Gun Amnesty
22 April 2016
BBC News
More than 800 firearms were handed in during a two-week guns amnesty launched after a spate of shootings in Salford.
Police urged people to "give up the gun" during the firearms and ammunition surrender across Greater Manchester, Merseyside, Cheshire, Cumbria, Lancashire and North Wales.
Rifles, handguns, air weapons and a number of imitation and antique firearms were collected.
Unusual items included a replica AK-47 and a Smith & Wesson pistol.
There has been a... (GunPolicy.org)
Secret Gun Amnesty Programme in Surrey, Canada
11 April 2016
News 1130 (Vancouver)
SURREY – More than 100 weapons have been turned in to police as part of a secret amnesty program by the RCMP. The program has been operating quietly for weeks.
There have been more than 30 reports of shots fired in Surrey so far this year. In a move to tackle this situation Mounties have been offering amnesty to various people allowing them to turn over their illegal weapons without any criminal penalty.
"We're actually recruiting those that we know we should be... (GunPolicy.org)
Canadian Conservative MP Calls for Gun Amnesty Program
7 April 2016
CTV News (Vancouver)
Surrey parents who discover their children are keeping a gun in the house should be able to turn the weapon over to police worry-free, according to the city's former mayor.
Dianne Watts, now a Conservative MP, is calling for a temporary amnesty program that would encourage parents to help get firearms off the streets.
The details haven't been worked out, but Watts said parents who hand over guns could be assured their children won't be charged for having them. She... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Amnesty Follows Spate of Shootings in Manchester
4 April 2016
BBC News
Four police forces are staging a two-week firearms amnesty after a spate of shootings in Salford.
There has been a spike in tit-for-tat attacks since Salford "Mr Big" Paul Massey was murdered in July 2015.
People are being urged to "give up the gun" during the firearms and ammunition surrender in Greater Manchester, Merseyside, Cheshire and Lancashire.
During the last amnesty almost two years ago hundreds of weapons were handed in, mostly antique firearms.
Greater... (GunPolicy.org)
5,000 to 6,000 Lawful Firearm Owners in Guadeloupe [FR]
22 March 2016
France Info, Agence France Presse
[Translated summary: Prefect of Guadeloupe calls for another gun amnesty. In January, Pointe-à-Pitre's Attorney said that there were 5,000 to 6,000 lawful firearm owners.]
Le préfet de la Guadeloupe, Jacques Billant, a lancé mardi une nouvelle campagne appelant la population à rendre les armes dont elle serait détentrice, même illégalement, sans crainte de poursuites judiciaires, alors que depuis le début de l'année le département a déjà enregistré huit... (GunPolicy.org)
Samoa Police Destroy 500 Firearms in Amnesty
15 January 2016
Samoa Observer
Samoa's gun amnesty has closed with more than 500 illegal guns destroyed.
This was part of a Police gun amnesty programme, which started in November last year.
Police Commissioner, Fuiavailili Egon Keil, says the amnesty was aimed to reduce gun violence,
"The main objective of this operation was to reduce the number of unlawful guns in Samoa and to afford law-abiding gun owners the chance to re-register your legally purchased guns without fear of prosecution," he... (GunPolicy.org)
Samoa Amnesty Nets 300+ Firearms
7 January 2016
Samoa Observer
More than 300 guns were collected by the Police during the Firearm Amnesty, which lasted for two months.
This was confirmed by Police Commissioner, Fuiavailili Egon Keil, who said the Amnesty gave members of the public a chance to hand in their unregistered and illegal weapons, without any questions asked.
The final day was 31 December 2015.
Since that day, anyone else who turns in a weapon will be charged.
Similarly, members of the public who still have illegal... (GunPolicy.org)
South Australia Gun Amnesty Draws 4444 Firearms
7 January 2016
News.com.au
Almost 450 firearms have been surrendered to South Australian police and firearms dealers in little more than a month under the state's gun amnesty.
Superintendent Kym Hand, from the SA police firearms branch police were pleased with the 444 handed in since the amnesty began on December 1, the first month of the seven-month amnesty.
"This is a very positive outcome, he said. We know that more than half of all firearms stolen come from rural areas, so we are... (GunPolicy.org)
South Australia Gun Amnesty Encourages Registration
7 January 2016
ABC News (Australia)
More than 400 unregistered, illegal or unwanted firearms have been surrendered to South Australian Police and firearms dealers in the first month of an amnesty.
The breakdown of police data shows most of the weapons were taken to police stations with two thirds of the weapons surrendered outside metropolitan Adelaide.
The amnesty runs until June 30, 2016.
Superintendent Kym Hand said police were pleased with the first month's data.
"We know that more than half of all... (GunPolicy.org)
Tasmania Gun Amnesty: 778 Firearms Surrendered
27 November 2015
Launceston Examiner
More than 700 unwanted firearms have been surrendered to Tasmania Police at gun amnesties around the state since September 2013.
Police experienced a highly successful amnesty at Longford earlier this month with about 100 guns voluntarily handed over to police, along with 1500 rounds of ammunition.
A total of 778 unwanted guns have been collected in the past two years and two months.
Another amnesty will take place at Scottsdale on Friday and police have reminded... (GunPolicy.org)
New Slovakia Law to Limit Gun Smuggling to Sweden
5 July 2015
Local (Sweden)
Sweden's comparatively strict weapons laws ensure that authorities have a tight control on registered arms.
But after a weapons amnesty conducted in 2013, police established that a surprising number of illegal firearms were in circulation in Sweden.
Last year 115 firearms were seized by the Swedish customs authorities and it was revealed that large proportion of these had been bought over the internet from Slovakia, where the law regarding plugged - or deactivated -... (GunPolicy.org)
Swedish Gun Amnesty Sees 15,000 Firearms Surrendered
30 December 2014
Local (Sweden)
Thirty-six tonnes of ammunition and over 15,000 weapons were given up in the first nationwide weapons amnesty for seven years.
Sweden's National Police Board carried out the three-month drive early last year, but officers only released the final results on Tuesday.
Sweden has only had two other amnesties, the most recent in 2007 - when 13,000 firearms were handed over by the public together with 14 tonnes of ammunition - and in 1993, when there were 17,000 firearms... (GunPolicy.org)
Rare Firearms Must Be Destroyed
24 July 2014
Examiner Newspaper
Tasmania Police says unusual firearms such as a Boer War rifle and some World War II machine guns that turned up as part of an amnesty will be destroyed.
Inspector John Ward of Firearm Services said the intent of the amnesty was to take guns out of the system.
In a Launceston amnesty last year, rifles from the Boer War and Afghanistan were handed in.
During last month's two week Operation Unification to take illegal firearms off the streets, two 9mm sub-machine guns... (GunPolicy.org)
Corrupt South African Cops May Have Sold Guns from Firearm Amnesty
5 June 2014
News24 (Cape Town)
JOHANNESBURG - An investigation into the possible sale of firearms handed to police during an amnesty period is under way, the Hawks said on Wednesday.
"There was nothing to investigate before until we came across new information and decided to follow it all up," spokesperson Paul Ramaloko said.
The investigation would focus on Gauteng first. The probe followed the arrest of three people at a house in Norwood, Johannesburg, where police found more than 300 firearms,... (GunPolicy.org)
Pastor Offers His Church for Unofficial Gun Amnesties in Bermuda
1 May 2014
Royal Gazette (Bermuda)
A Bermuda pastor has offered his church as a neutral venue for gun amnesties.
The Rev Leonard Santucci, pastor at the AME's Vernon Temple in Southampton, said that, even if his proposal failed to get official sanction, he was prepared to accept firearms at his church or even collect them from people's homes.
Dr Santucci said he had been involved in a successful gun buy back programme while serving in a church in East Orange, New Jersey.
He added: "I believe the... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Authorities Issue Gun Amnesty Ultimatum to Criminals
27 March 2014
Capital FM
NAIROBI — Mombasa County Commissioner Nelson Marwa has issued a one week amnesty to criminal gangs to surrender or face the full force of the law.
Marwa stated that those in possession of illegal firearms should surrender them before the expiry of the amnesty.
Speaking after a meeting with Muslim leaders, Marwa said the recent incidents of security are scaring away potential investors.
"All criminals in this county who are harbouring illegal weapons should... (GunPolicy.org)
Dominican Police Uses New Method to Find Illegal Guns After Amnesty Failure
12 March 2014
Bernama (Malaysia) / NAM News Network
ROSEAU - Law enforcement officials here have admitted that a gun amnesty launched in Dominica a few years ago has failed.
The gun amnesty, which was spearheaded by the Government of Dominica, was geared towards persons with illegal firearms.
They were asked to bring these firearms to the police and would not face any charges; however, according to reports, only two persons took advantage of that.
Speaking on the heels of several gun related incidents over the past... (GunPolicy.org)
Changes to Australian State Law Allows Dealers to Sell Amnesty Guns
12 February 2014
ABC News (Australia)
Changes to firearm laws in Tasmania are expected to take more guns off the streets.
The Police Commissioner is set to announce that firearm dealers will no longer be amnesty points.
Under Tasmania's permanent firearm amnesty, people with unregistered and unlicensed guns can hand them into police without fear of criminal charges.
Guns can also be handed in to registered firearm dealers who can then register and sell them.
The anti-gun lobby says the practice defeats... (GunPolicy.org)
Firearm Amnesty Begins in Martinique, 138 Guns Seized in 2013 [FR]
2 February 2014
La Croix (France)
[Translated summary: Martinique authorities have begun a two-month firearms amnesty. The campaign hopes to prevent crime and officials say 138 firearms were seized in Martinique in 2013, including some which were illegally imported or stolen. A similar campaign in Guadeloupe last year was very successful.]
Comme les Guadeloupéens l'an denier, les Martiniquais sont invités par l'autorité préfectorale à remettre les armes à feu en leur possession dans le cadre... (GunPolicy.org)
South Africa Govt Says Most Owners 'Responsible' Despite Recent Gun Deaths
26 November 2013
Eyewitness News (South Africa)
CAPE TOWN - The Police Ministry says the country's legal gun owners are responsible citizens despite several incidents of gun deaths.
Recently Women, Children and Disabled Persons Minister Lulu Xingwana called for stricter enforcement of gun control laws.
Xingwana went on to say Reeva Steenkamp would still be alive if Oscar Pistorius didn't own a gun.
Pistorius will return to court in 2014 after killing Steenkamp in February.
Police Ministry spokesperson Zweli Mnisi... (GunPolicy.org)
Eighty Percent of Guns Handed in to Australian Amnesty Unregistered
20 November 2013
Examiner (Tasmania)
Eighty per cent of guns handed in at the weekend's firearm amnesty in Launceston had never been registered, Tasmania Police estimated yesterday.
The mobile amnesty, held at the Silverdome, received nearly 200 firearms over two days.
Tasmania had some of Australia's weakest firearm laws before the 1996 Port Arthur massacre including no requirement to register longarms.
Following the toughening of gun laws, including compulsory registration, Tasmanians registered about... (GunPolicy.org)
Northern Tasmanians Have Gun Amnesty Target in Sights
17 November 2013
Examiner Newspaper
Northern Tasmanians are on track to meet the firearms amnesty target set in Hobart two months ago, after almost 80 firearms were surrendered to police yesterday.
People who visited the mobile police station at the Silverdome car park handed over 77 firearms and various amounts of ammunition.
Almost 50 firearms were counted within two-and-a-half hours of the collection point opening yesterday morning.
Launceston resident Leonie Gates could barely lift the firearm she... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Amnesty Triggers Mixed Results in Western Australia
15 November 2013
ABC News (Australia)
Police say the initial results of a state-wide gun amnesty reveal 500 people in regional Western Australia surrendered unlicensed firearms to authorities.
During the three-month firearms amnesty, which finished last month, more than 1,200 unlicensed firearms were collected from across the state.
The highest surrender rate within the state's seven regions was in the south-west, with 164, and the lowest was in the Pilbara at 30.
In the Goldfields and Esperance region,... (GunPolicy.org)
Over 1,200 Unlicensed Guns Collected in West Australian Amnesty
15 November 2013
ABC News (Australia)
Police say the initial results of a state-wide gun amnesty reveal 500 people in regional Western Australia surrendered unlicensed firearms to authorities.
During the three-month firearms amnesty, which finished last month, more than 1,200 unlicensed firearms were collected from across the state.
The highest surrender rate within the state's seven regions was in the south-west, with 164, and the lowest was in the Pilbara at 30.
In the Goldfields and Esperance region,... (GunPolicy.org)
Authorisation to Carry Guns in Solomon Island's Police Force
25 October 2013
ABC News (Australia)
Planning has begun in Solomon Islands for parts of the local police force to again be issued with guns. It's a major shift in policy, 10 years after a gun amnesty was introduced as part of the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands.
RAMSI's Participating Police Force Commander Paul Osborne says only three sections of the force will carry the weapons.
"That'll be airport policing," he told Pacific Beat.
"The close personal protection (unit to protect) visiting... (GunPolicy.org)
Planning Underway for Re-Introduction of Firearms into Solomons Police
25 October 2013
ABC Radio Australia (Shortwave)
In Solomon Islands, planning is now underway for the local police force to AGAIN be issued with guns.
Although the reintroduction of firearms would be limited, it's still a major shift in policy 10 years after a gun amnesty was part of the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands or RAMSI.
The intervention was a regional response to five years of ethnic tensions and there's no doubt some of the bloodshed was caused by the police's own guns which militants had... (GunPolicy.org)
Solomon Islands Approves Limited Reintroduction of Firearms for Police
21 October 2013
Scoop (New Zealand), Media release
Cabinet has approved a limited reintroduction of firearms into the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force.
Minister for Police, National Security and Corrections Chris Laore announced the Cabinet decision at the signing of the 5 year RAMSI Drawdown Strategy at the Rove Police Headquarters last Thursday.
Minister Laore said the limited reintroduction of firearms is a capacity development program within the 2013-2017 RAMSI Drawdown Strategy for the Royal Solomon Islands... (GunPolicy.org)
Over 300 Guns Retrieved in Canadian Pixels for Pistols Amnesty
17 October 2013
CTV News (Toronto)
OTTAWA - Pixels for Pistols: Over 300 guns turned in and climbing!
The Ottawa Police Service has picked up over 300 guns from residents participating in the Pixels for Pistols gun amnesty program. Officers continue to pick up guns every day and getting to the new calls for pick up as fast as they can.
"We're getting all types of firearms, like shot guns, rifles, handguns," said Staff Sergeant Mark Patterson, head of the Ottawa Police Guns and Gangs Unit. "People have... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Hail Gun Amnesty a Success in Tasmania
18 September 2013
Derwent Valley Gazette
Police had a strong response to a gun amnesty held at Granton at the weekend.
Detective Acting Inspector Craig Joel said that after the recent wave of gun theft in the state, Tasmania Police would have been content with a single unwanted firearm being handed in, but they were overwhelmed by the success of the mobile amnesty.
"The Tasmanian community made a strong statement that they do support us in our endeavours," he said.
Ninety-nine firearms were handed in at the... (GunPolicy.org)
Response to Gun Amnesty Surprises Tasmania Police
15 September 2013
ABC News (Australia)
Police have had a strong response to a weekend gun amnesty held in southern Tasmania.
In the face of a wave of gun thefts across the state, police say there are buoyed by the success.
A total of 99 guns were handed in at a mobile station at Granton, including 34 shotguns, 43 rifles, 17 air rifles and five hand guns.
Detective Acting Inspector Craig Joel says the high number handed in was a surprise.
"This is a way of getting the message out that illicit and unwanted... (GunPolicy.org)
Strong Response to Australian Gun Amnesty Surprises Police
15 September 2013
ABC News (Australia)
Police have had a strong response to a weekend gun amnesty held in southern Tasmania.
In the face of a wave of gun thefts across the state, police say there are buoyed by the success.
A total of 99 guns were handed in at a mobile station at Granton, including 34 shotguns, 43 rifles, 17 air rifles and five hand guns.
Detective Acting Inspector Craig Joel says the high number handed in was a surprise.
"This is a way of getting the message out that illicit and unwanted... (GunPolicy.org)
28 August 2013
Cairns Post
A Queensland Police sergeant has resigned in disgrace over an anti-corruption probe into an alleged stash of illicit weapons found in his private armoury that had been handed in under the gun amnesty.
Former officer-in-charge of Ravenshoe Police Station Michael Musumeci, a licensed gun collector and amateur war historian, resigned two weeks ago as part of an ongoing internal audit and investigation by Ethical Standards Command. Detectives reportedly found an arsenal of... (GunPolicy.org)
Queensland 2013 Amnesty, 4,475 Firearms Destroyed
28 June 2013
Chronicle (Australia)
A simple gesture of gratitude from police has taken on a deeper meaning for the Toowoomba-based secretary of the Shooter's Union of Queensland.
Rob Harrold said the certificate of appreciation presented to him by the manager of this year's Firearms and Weapons Amnesty Inspector Peter Assfalg showed great cooperation between the two parties.
"To me the important thing is that it establishes to the shooters that we can work with the police," Mr Harrold said.
The union... (GunPolicy.org)
Dead People Still 'Own' Guns in West Australia as Amnesty Announced
27 June 2013
Nine MSN News (Australia)
Dead men aren't supposed to have guns.
Except in Western Australia, where almost 1000 firearms belonging to people who've died are unaccounted for.
An audit of the state's weapons has uncovered serious flaws in gun control, with police having no way of knowing exactly how many legal and illegal guns there are.
"We have no confidence in the accuracy of basic information on the number of people licensed to possess firearms or the number of licensed or unlicensed... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Amnesty Begins in Canadian Province
30 May 2013
CBC News (Canada)
Police in B.C. will begin collecting unauthorized and unwanted guns on Saturday, as part of a month-long firearms amnesty program they say will help remove guns from communities and reduce the risk they could fall into the hands of criminals.
RCMP Insp. Brad Haugli said officers often encounter cases in which tragedy could have been averted if guns were not involved.
"As someone who has lost a loved one to suicide by firearm, I know that devastation first-hand,"... (GunPolicy.org)
NSW Police Unite in New England Gun Amnesty
24 May 2013
Northern Daily Leader
Police across the New England North West will unite with their interstate counterparts as part of a crackdown to target and seize illegal firearms before they end up in the wrong hands.
Operation Unification was launched yesterday as a means to try and smash the illegal guns black market.
New England police are on board as part of the two-week operation, stepping up their operations especially on the New England Highway as part of the crackdown.
Armidale duty officer... (GunPolicy.org)
Zambia Minister Asks Police to Revive Gun Amnesty to Reduce Crime
12 May 2013
Times of Zambia
Home Affairs Minister Edgar Lungu has urged the Zambia Police Service to revive the gun amnesty and buy-back schemes to reduce the number of illicit firearms in Zambia.
Mr Lungu said the police should seriously look into the increased misuse of firearms that were mostly smuggled into Zambia.
He said this when he officiated at the opening of Kanele Shopping Mall and Kanele Enterprise yesterday.
"The regulations of firearms dealing are continuously being stiffened both... (GunPolicy.org)
Queensland Gun Amnesty Encourages Firearm Registration
5 May 2013
Courier-Mail (Brisbane)
"Our message to anyone in possession of an illegal firearm is to act now while no penalties apply "
- Assistant Commissioner Mike Condon
Seventy-five guns a day on average are being handed in under Queensland's firearms amnesty but police admit they are probably only a fraction of the illegal weapons on the state's streets.
About 200 of the more than 4500 guns handed in under the amnesty so far were destroyed yesterday at Nerang police station on the Gold Coast.
The... (GunPolicy.org)
Queensland Amnesty Unearths Over 8,500 Firearms
1 May 2013
ABC News (Australia)
Weapons ranging from hand guns, stun guns and cross bows have been netted in Queensland's three month amnesty.
The time to hand in your weapons has passed. Queensland's gun amnesty has ended, unearthing over 8,500 firearms over the prosecution-free period.
According to police, 2,000 of the weapons were surrendered to be destroyed, with a large majority of the weapons surrendered to be registered properly before being returned to their owners.
Over 200 of the weapons... (GunPolicy.org)
27 April 2013
Cairns Post
Simplifying the registration process has led to the most successful gun amnesty in recent memory according to a Cairns weapons dealer.
The general firearms and weapons amnesty ends on Tuesday after which strict penalties for unlicensed weapons will come into effect.
Owners are able to hand in weapons at either licensed dealers or police station and CRM Gunsports dealer nominee Shane Green said he'd been rushed off his feet this week as people tried to get in before... (GunPolicy.org)
Bermuda Govt Announces Gun Amnesty, Buyback to Cut Crime
15 April 2013
Global Post (Boston) / CANA News
Public Safety Minister Michael Dunkley has announced that a cash for guns scheme is to be introduced next month in a fresh attack on violent crime in Bermuda.
The programme, run jointly with the independent Crime Stoppers group, will see cash rewards for information leading to the recovery of firearms or the arrest and prosecution of offenders.
Dunkley said an advertising blitz for the scheme will kick off this month after emphasising the independence and... (GunPolicy.org)
Queensland Firearm Amnesty Draws 500 Guns
5 April 2013
Morning Bulletin, APN Newsdesk
NUMBERS BY REGION
Central - Rockhampton, Mackay and Gladstone: 550 handed in.
South Eastern - Gold Coast and Logan: 625
North Coast - Sunshine Coast, Bundaberg, Fraser Coast, Maryborough, Gympie, Caboolture: 737
Southern Region - Ipswich, Toowoomba, Roma, Warwick: 562
North - Townsville: 493
Far North - Cairns: 508
POLICE stations and gun shops around Rockhampton have received more than 500 unregistered guns as the Queensland firearm amnesty enters its final... (GunPolicy.org)
Tasmania Gun Amnesty Nets Hundreds of Unlawful Firearms
5 April 2013
Daily Mercury
Central Queensland police stations and gun shops have been inundated with hundreds of weapons as the Queensland firearm amnesty enters its final month.
And a flash stun grenade was one of more than 4000 weapons handed in statewide.
In the central region, which covers Mackay, Rockhampton and Gladstone, about 550 guns have been handed in under the amnesty running until the end of this month.
After eight weeks of allowing unregistered gun owners to come forward to have... (GunPolicy.org)
Queensland Firearm Amnesty Triggers Call: Surrender Guns
4 April 2013
ABC News (Australia)
Police will today destroy some of the thousands of guns they have collected in a firearms amnesty.
More than 4,000 unregistered weapons have been surrendered in the past eight weeks, with a month on the amnesty still to go.
Crime Stoppers chief executive officer Trevor O'Hara says it is important illegal firearms are taken out of harm's way.
"There is just so much crime happening these days with illegal firearms and the community has had enough," he said.
"They are... (GunPolicy.org)
Over 3500 Guns Collected, 700 Destroyed in Australian Amnesty
22 March 2013
Gladstone Observer (Australia)
More than 3500 firearms have been handed in as Queensland's gun amnesty reached the half-way mark.
Almost 700 have been surrendered for destruction with the remaining firearms registered.
The three-month amnesty, which ends on April 30, began as the government introduced new firearm laws involving mandatory jail terms, even a year for possessing an illegal firearm in a public place.
Police Minister Jack Dempsey is urging Queenslanders to take advantage of the... (GunPolicy.org)
Northeast Brazil Suffers Highest Gun Deaths - Study
11 March 2013
InSight Crime (Bogota)
A new study shows that northeastern Brazil is the region most affected by gun deaths in the country, having experienced a dramatic upswing in violence over the past decade.
The study, released by non-governmental organization the Brazilian Centre for Latin American Studies (Cebela) shows that over 36,000 Brazilians were killed by guns in 2010 -- a rate of 20.4 people per 100,000. The rate is slightly below 2000 levels but nearly triple the rate of 1980. Nearly 95... (GunPolicy.org)
Sweden Holds Gun Amnesty to Get Illegal, Homemade Guns Off Street
1 March 2013
Local (Sweden)
Sweden on Friday commenced with its first weapons amnesty in more than five years, allowing anyone to turn illegal firearms in to police with no questions asked.
"From a law enforcement perspective, we are happy to have a new, temporary weapons amnesty underway," Detective Peter Thorsell of the legal division of the National Police Board (Rikspolisstyrelsen) said in a statement.
"Reducing illegal weapons possession is a very important measure for reducing gun... (GunPolicy.org)
Queensland Gun Amnesty Allows Three Months to Register
14 February 2013
Home Hill Observer
A firearms amnesty has been launched over three months to allow those with unregistered firearms to surrender or register the weapons.
Residents from across the Burdekin are being encouraged to hand in their unlicensed weapons, or register them at their local firearms dealer.
Ayr Police Senior Sergeant, Steve Barton, said the amnesty was a good opportunity for people to safely and consciously destroy their unregistered or unlicensed firearms.
"People have the option... (GunPolicy.org)
Mexicans Swap Over 3,000 Guns for Computers, Bikes in Amnesty
6 February 2013
InSight Crime (Bogota)
Mexico City authorities have received over 3,000 firearms in exchange for cash, bicycles, tablet computers and other goods, in new amnesty program aimed at tackling gun crime.
The program, "For your family, voluntarily disarmament" (Por tu familia, desarme voluntario), has been running in three of Mexico City's 16 districts for the last two months. El Capitalino reports that government officials associated with the program have visited nearly half a million homes in... (GunPolicy.org)
Japan,Scotland,Australia,United States
In Other Countries than the US, Laws Are Strict and Work
17 December 2012
New York Times, Editorial
Like other shootings before it, the Newtown, Conn., tragedy has reawakened America to its national fixation with firearms. No country in the world has more guns per capita, with some 300 million civilian firearms now in circulation, or nearly one for every adult.
Experts from the Harvard School of Public Health, using data from 26 developed countries, have shown that wherever there are more firearms, there are more homicides. In the case of the United States,... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Dealers Call for Amnesty for Owners With Lapsed Licenses
1 December 2012
Tempo (Manila)
Manila, Philippines – The Association of Firearms and Ammunition Dealers of the Philippines (AFAD) urged President Benigno S. Aquino III to consider approving another round of gun amnesty for delinquent gun owners who failed to renew the license of their guns.
Its suggestion came after the Philippine National Police (PNP) declared that it has no problem foregoing the penalties that delinquent gun owners have incurred for non-renewal of guns, according to AFAD... (GunPolicy.org)
Victoria Police Gun Amnesty Nets 1,100 Illegal Weapons
8 November 2012
ABC News (Australia)
More than 1,100 illegal weapons have been handed in to police across the state during the first week of an amnesty.
In Bendigo, more than 80 firearms and weapons have been surrendered. Forty-seven were handed in in Frankston and 44 in Ringwood.
High-powered rifles were handed over in Warrnambool and daggers were surrendered in Prahran.
Other weapons turned over to police included a handmade handgun, and a modified .22 calibre rifle that looks like an M16... (GunPolicy.org)
South Australia Firearm Amnesty Nets Over 2700 Guns
1 November 2012
West Australian (Perth)
More than 2700 illegal and unwanted weapons have been handed in during South Australia's most successful gun amnesty.
The government's three-month general firearms amnesty ended at midnight on Wednesday.
By the end of the amnesty, 168 handguns, 2420 Class A or B firearms and 105 Class C or D guns were taken to police stations across the state.
More than 77 weapons are yet to be identified and 13 fit into the prescribed category.
Attorney-General John Rau said 2783... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Authorities Offer Gun Amnesty After Deadly Clashes
23 October 2012
Star (Kenya)
The Government has issued amnesty to all those who would surrender firearms voluntarily in the Tanadelta district which experienced deadly clashes in the past two months.
Authorities said all those who would surrender firearms voluntarily shall not be prosecuted and instead will be given certificates of commendation for returning the illegal firearms.
However those who will defy the orders shall be liable for prosecution and face the full force of the law as more than... (GunPolicy.org)
Samoa Considers Gun Amnesty After Recent Shooting Deaths
15 October 2012
Radio New Zealand International (Shortwave)
Samoa's Ministry of Police is considering calling a gun amnesty following concerns over the increasing number of unlicensed and illegal firearms in the community.
The assistant police commissioner, Leaupepe Fatu Pula, says it's not only the public who are worried but police officers have also raised their concerns.
He says guns were found at a recent police drug raid, and a gun was used recently to kill a local taxi driver.
He also says police are investigating the... (GunPolicy.org)
Rwanda Police Call on Public to Join Voluntary Gun Amnesty
11 September 2012
News of Rwanda
The Police have in the past conducted various campaigns to get firearm weapons from the public, but the rate at which they are causing harm shows that they are still scattered around the country.
Last week, September 5, a 12-year old boy died following a grenade explosion at their home in Nyarurama cell, Ntongwe sector, Ruhango District. The blast took place right in their store.
According to ACP Sam Karemera, the National Focal Point Coordinator on small arms and... (GunPolicy.org)
City Hall Rapped for Hundreds of Unregistered Guns in Philippines
2 September 2012
Philippine Star / Freeman
CEBU, Philippines - The Commission on Audit (COA) said that Mayor Michael Rama and other Cebu City Government officials violated the law for keeping in City Hall custody hundreds of unlicensed guns.
"Although some of these firearms are now kept in the vault at the General Service Office (GSO), we believe that still, this condition may not relieve the city government of the liabilities and consequences of possessing unlicensed firearms," said Cebu City Resident Auditor... (GunPolicy.org)
Chile Authorities Undertake New Gun Amnesty Campaign
20 August 2012
Infosurhoy (Chile)
SANTIAGO, Chile – Neighbor, be conscientious.
That's the motto of the campaign the Carabineros de Chile police force is carrying out to reduce the number of firearms in the hands of Chileans in response to the growing number of robberies and murders involving guns.
There were 11,783 robberies and 93 murders involving firearms last year. In 2010 there were 12,987 armed robberies, but that number should plummet this year, as there were 4,699 armed robberies committed... (GunPolicy.org)
Asia,United States,Philippines
Call for 'Gunless Society', Tougher Penalties in Philippines
30 July 2012
Philippine Star, Opinion
The Colorado Movie Theater shooting tragedy where 12 people were killed and 58 were injured during a sold-out midnight premier of the new Batman movie "The Dark Knight Rises" brought chills to many around the world. Imagine a 24-year-old man named James Holmes unloaded four weapons' full of ammunition into the unsuspecting crowd without any fear whatsoever. And here we are in our neck of the woods selling ammunition like hotcakes to any Tom, Dick or Harry.
Many... (GunPolicy.org)
Serbian Expert Calls for Gun Amnesty, Destruction by Authorities
27 July 2012
RTS (Belgrade) /, SEESAC (Belgrade)
The recent raid in Sremska Mitrovica, Serbia, during which authorities found and seized a significant amount of weapons in the house of a man suspected of producing and selling weapons and explosive materials, provides yet another opportunity to reflect on the widespread presence of illegal weapons in Serbia.
In a recent interview for Radio Television Serbia (RTS), Mr. Ivan Cvijovic from the Belgrade Police Department pointed out that in 2011 alone, the Belgrade Police... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Buybacks Target Wrong Guns, Owners: Money Could Be Better Spent
15 July 2012
WNYC News (New York)
A Queens lawmaker last week called for more gun buy-back programs in the wake of a triple fatal shooting. But experts cast doubt on the effectiveness of the program to thwart crime.
Councilman James Sanders urged Queens District Attorney Richard Brown at press conference last Tuesday to hold another gun amnesty event. The most recent borough-wide buy-back program netted 922 guns.
Buybacks allow gun owners to turn over their weapons in exchange for money, no questions... (GunPolicy.org)
South Australia New Bill Allows Jailing for Illegally Discharging Firearms
13 June 2012
ABC News (Australia)
Legislation allowing for the jailing of people who illegally discharge guns has been introduced in the South Australian Parliament.
It is a response to cases including recent drive-by shootings in Adelaide.
SA Attorney-General John Rau said the bill creates a new offence of discharging a firearm without a lawful excuse.
Once the legislation passed, Mr Rau said a three-month amnesty would open for illegal weapons to be surrendered to police.
"The clear objective of... (GunPolicy.org)
Venezuela Bans Private Gun Ownership, Aims to Disarm All Civilians
1 June 2012
BBC News
Venezuela has brought a new gun law into effect which bans the commercial sale of firearms and ammunition.
Until now, anyone with a gun permit could buy arms from a private company.
Under the new law, only the army, police and certain groups like security companies will be able to buy arms from the state-owned weapons manufacturer and importer.
The ban is the latest attempt by the government to improve security and cut crime ahead of elections in October.
Venezuela... (GunPolicy.org)
Peace Council Imposes Gun Ban in Philippine Autonomous Region
13 April 2012
Philippine Information Agency
COTABATO CITY -- The members of the Regional Peace and Order Council has decided to impose a gun ban and regulate the issuance of firearms in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).
ARMM governor officer-in-charge regional governor Mujiv Hataman said that the council has unanimously agreed to pass a resolution proposing the imposition of gun ban in the areas under the autonomous region not only during the election period but also during voters'... (GunPolicy.org)
15 March 2012
International Action Network on Small Arms / IANSA
A gun amnesty in Puerto Rico has removed more than 400 firearms and over 30,000 rounds of ammunition from circulation since it began in February 2012. The amnesty is overseen by the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, in cooperation with local government and religious centres across the country.
Over 35 churches have received training in how to handle surrendered weapons and have been certified as gun collection points. Henry Neumann, of the Ministry, said the... (GunPolicy.org)
Read More: International Action Network on Small Arms / IANSA
Puerto Rico Gun Amnesty Nets 400 Firearms, 30,000 Rounds of Ammo
12 March 2012
Daily Sun (Puerto Rico)
The government has pulled out of circulation more than 400 firearms as well as more than 30,000 rounds of ammunition since last month's amnesty to turn them in came into effect, said the Secretary of Sports and Recreation, Henry Neumann.
"We have already collected over 400 firearms throughout Puerto Rico … more than 30,000 rounds of ammunition have been delivered to us as of 4 p.m. on Saturday, and we are letting the people know of the success behind this measure and... (GunPolicy.org)
Muslim Clerics Support Firearm Licensing Amnesty Campaign in Philippines
8 March 2012
Philippine Star
COTABATO CITY, Philippines – Muslim clerics are ready to support the enforcement of a general firearm registration amnesty program in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
But the group noted that this can only be done if the government puts up more courts in the area with judges courageous enough to litigate high-profile cases to establish the semblance of strong justice system.
For local sociologists and contemporary historians, it is the perennial lack of... (GunPolicy.org)
South Sudan Army Ready to Conduct a Gun Amnesty Amongst Civilians
5 March 2012
Sudan Tribune (France)
JUBA — The South Sudan army, the Sudan People's Liberation Army (SPLA) has announced its readiness to conduct the "peaceful" collection of illegal arms from the civil population across the country but primarily in Jonglei, Unity, Lakes and Warrap states; all of which have recently been subject to increased tribal conflict.
Majak D' Agoot, South Sudan's deputy defence minister, said the SPLA has the mandate to remove arms from the hands of the unauthorised civil... (GunPolicy.org)
New South Wales Police Seized 131 Illegal Handguns in 2010-11
12 February 2012
Sydney Morning Herald
Police are powerless to stop gun crime while weapons exist on Sydney's streets, the Police Commissioner, Andrew Scipione, has admitted, but he will consider lobbying for a gun amnesty if his officers request it.
In an interview with The Sun-Herald, Mr Scipione compared gun crimes to car crashes, saying they were impossible to stop. But he said police were heavily focused on fighting the spike in shootings in Sydney's south-west.
"There is no way I would suggest that... (GunPolicy.org)
Final Appeal as Bahamas Gun Amnesty Nears End
1 November 2011
Nassau Guardian (Bahamas)
With just two days before the gun amnesty comes to an end, National Security Minister Tommy Turnquest made a final appeal for people to turn in their illegal weapons.
Midway through the amnesty period, 18 firearms and 3,386 live rounds of ammunition had been delivered to police. Yesterday, Turnquest confirmed that a few more guns have been turned in since then.
"We're asking people to turn in their guns. The new amendments to the Firearms Act will come into force next... (GunPolicy.org)
Bahamas Police Seized and Marked 361 Illegal Guns So Far
24 October 2011
Nassau Guardian (Bahamas)
National Security Minister Tommy Turnquest said last week that 361 illegal guns have been marked and taken off the streets with the police force's new firearms marking machine. This figure does not include the 18 guns turned in so far under the 30-day gun amnesty, set to expire on November 3.
In 2010 police confiscated 261 weapons.
In his contribution to the debate on the package of anti-crime bills last week Wednesday, Turnquest said that "firearms marking is an... (GunPolicy.org)
Owners of Unlicensed Handguns Urged to Hand them to Bahamas Police
17 October 2011
Tribune (Bahamas)
Bishop Simeon Hall appealed to all persons in possession of an unlicensed firearm yesterday to turn them in to the authorities during the government's one-month amnesty period.
According to the Minister of National Security, Tommy Turnquest, this firearm amnesty period, which began on October 5 comes to an end on November 4.
Persons who have illegal firearms can hand them over to authorities without fear of prosecution to police stations in New Providence, Grand... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Amnesty in the Bahamas a Bad Idea, Says Opposition Leader
5 October 2011
Nassau Guardian (Bahamas)
Democratic National Alliance (DNA) leader Branville McCartney said yesterday the government should reconsider its moratorium on illegal firearms.
"If they have the gun then we need to deal with them,"McCartney said.
"Don't give them any amnesty. Let's find them, get them and deal with them. You want the criminal element to respect the law. We want them to know that they should not be doing things because there will be consequences. I don't know if what is proposed... (GunPolicy.org)
Bahamas Prime Minister Announces Amnesty for Unlicensed Guns
4 October 2011
Nassau Guardian (Bahamas)
Calling his address last night "one of the more distressing national addresses" he has ever given, Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham announced an amnesty period for illegal weapons to be turned in, tougher penalties for people found guilty of gun crimes and the addition of two gun courts.
Ingraham advised that for a period of 30 days following the introduction of amendments to the Firearms Act tomorrow, all citizens and other persons are requested to turn in to police any... (GunPolicy.org)
Bermuda Island Must Try Gun Buyback Scheme, Says Former Senator
19 September 2011
Royal Gazette (Bermuda)
The state of New Jersey has well-publicised problems with gangs and guns and one Bermudian has been doing his part to try to solve them.
The Rev Leonard Santucci, pastor of St Paul AME Church in East Orange, was involved in a gun buy back programme, which resulted in the recovery of almost 1,000 guns in just a couple of days.
The scheme saw prosecutors in Essex County join forces with churches of various denominations to encourage those with guns to turn them in.
Dr... (GunPolicy.org)
Argentina Launches Second Phase of Gun Amnesty, Buyback [ES]
10 August 2011
Rafaela.com (Argentina)
[Translated summary: The second phase of the National Programme for the Voluntary Surrender of Firearms, launched in 2007, was presented this week in the form of a buyback. According to the Argentinian Minister of Security, the first phase of the amnesty recovered 107,761 firearms and 774,679 rounds of ammunition.
En la primera etapa de este programa, creado en julio de 2007, se recuperaron en todo el país 107.761 armas y 774.679 municiones, de las cuales 10.158... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Gun Amnesty Programme 2 Years Later: A 'Huge Success'
4 August 2011
Daily Champion (Lagos)
When former President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua approved the implementation of the Niger Delta Amnesty programme two years ago, he, most likely, would not have imagined that it would become the huge success that it presently has become.
At the time he made the historic move, the Niger Delta region was, literally, a war zone. Militant youths, armed with sophisticated weapons controlled different parts of the states of the region, killing, maiming or kidnapping people,... (GunPolicy.org)
With 2 Guns Turned In During Cayman Amnesty, Police Now Offer Cash
2 August 2011
CayCompass.com (Cayman Islands)
With just two firearms being turned in during the Royal Cayman Islands Police guns amnesty programme in July, officers have decided to extend the programme for another month.
This time around, they'll be offering cash to individuals who turn in their weapons.
According to Robert Baraud of High Impact Media, his company has set aside $2,000 for police to offer to those who turn in weapons or ammunition. Additional donations for the programme will be sought from the... (GunPolicy.org)
Even With Cayman Police Amnesty, Gun Crime Seems to Be Creeping Up
21 July 2011
Cayman Compass (Cayman Islands), Editorial
"Crimes like murders and burglaries that plagued the Cayman Islands during the last few years have fallen off police charts so far in 2011."
So began the article on page 2 of the Friday, 15 July, 2011, Caymanian Compass.
Tell that to the owner of Reflections following Tuesday night's smash and grab.
Tell that to the owner of Lorna's Texaco in Bodden Town and his loyal employee Medsadie Connor who was shot and her purse stolen.
Tell that to the owner of the Red Bay... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Kick Off Gun Amnesty as Crime Continues to Fall in Cayman Islands
14 July 2011
CayCompass.com (Cayman Islands)
Crimes like murders and burglaries that have plagued the Cayman Islands over the last few years have fallen off the police charts so far in 2011.
But they've been replaced by a shocking increase in robberies and firearms possession cases through the first six months of this year.
"This year the crime landscape is somewhat different," Police Commissioner David Baines said. "The increase in robberies is very concerning and has posed some challenges. These remain the... (GunPolicy.org)
Australian Drug Lord Gives Up Gun Cache in Hope of Reduced Sentence
9 July 2011
Daily Telegraph (Sydney)
The Tony Soprano of Australia's cocaine trade has organised for a large cache of weapons to be handed in to police, a court has been told.
Alen Moradian - dubbed Tony Soprano by his wife - should be given a 45 per cent discount on his jail term because of the weapons handover and his plea of guilty, his barrister Phillip Boulten, SC, said.
"It is highly unlikely there has been a handover of guns like this since prime minister (John Howard) offered a gun amnesty to all... (GunPolicy.org)
Firearm Amnesty Picks Up Momentum in Egypt
25 June 2011
Egyptian Gazette (Cairo)
CAIRO - More than 15 firearms, including eight automatic rifles, seven handguns and 200 bullets, were handed in to Cairo police on the first day of Egypt's two-month weapons amnesty which ends next month, an Interior Ministry official said.
The national amnesty, the first since the January 25 revolution and in part prompted by fears of a growing firearms culture, began on June 1 and runs until the end of July 31. It has netted 15 weapons and 200 bullets across Cairo,... (GunPolicy.org)
Cayman Islands Police Holding a Gun Amnesty to Reduce Gun Crimes
8 June 2011
Cayman News Service (Cayman Islands)
Police will be holding a month long amnesty on firearms this July in an effort to repeat last year's success. Detective Superintendent Marlon Bodden said that this time the amnesty would be promoted at a local level through a series of town hall meetings where police would discuss the issue of gun crime with residents in the community. He told CNS Wednesday morning that he believed the reason why there had been no murders in the Cayman Islands so far in 2011 was because... (GunPolicy.org)
In the Gun Control Debate, Americans Often Speak Different Languages
3 April 2011
Indianapolis Star (Indiana)
Jim Bolin was as shocked as anyone else in Morgan County to hear about the shooting of a teen at Martinsville's West Middle School.
But he's not shocked enough to get rid of his guns -- even though he and his wife are raising five children younger than 5 in their Mooresville home.
"I think if people are responsible and they're not criminals, they're allowed to have guns, they should have all they want," Bolin said.
"Back when I first had guns, I had two daughters... (GunPolicy.org)
Popular Gun Amnesty, Buyback Destroyed 100,000 Firearms in Argentina
10 March 2011
Press TV (Iran)
Argentina's gun buy-back program is to be extended and amended to maintain its popularity in preventing violent crime and controlling the underground gun market.
"The plan is being implemented in collaboration with the general public and representatives of provinces and religious groups. In the first stage of the plan, in 2007, we destroyed more than 100,000 registered guns," says Andres Meiszner, the director of the Arms Registry Office.
The plan is so popular that... (GunPolicy.org)
Canadian Tories Exempt Gun Owners from Firearm Registry for 5th Year
4 March 2011
Toronto Sun (Ontario)
OTTAWA - The federal government is expected to extend the amnesty for long gun owners who don't register their weapons for another year.
It would be the fifth time the Conservatives protected licensed owners of unregistered long guns from criminal charges.
The extension could be announced in the next few weeks, and would likely come into effect May 17, when the current amnesty expires.
A government official confirmed Friday the amnesty will be extended, saying the... (GunPolicy.org)
Trinidad & Tobago Welcomes Canadian Support, Funds to Curb Gun Trade
10 February 2011
Guardian (Trinidad and Tobago)
Gun amnesty is not right for T&T at this point in time. This was the recommendation put forward yesterday by Police Commissioner Dwayne Gibbs at the launch of a regional project on gun control, titled Strengthening Caricom Co-operation to reduce Gun Crime, at the Hilton Trinidad and Conference Centre. The project is a collaboration between Caricom's Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (IMPACS) and Project Ploughshares, a Canadian non-governmental organisation.... (GunPolicy.org)
America's National Mindset Confuses Right of Protection with Right to Kill
11 January 2011
Sydney Morning Herald, Editorial
On November 30 last year, 22-year-old Jared Lee Loughner walked into a Sportsman's Warehouse store in Tucson, Arizona, and bought a Glock 19 semi-automatic handgun, serial number PWL699. He passed the instant background check required by US federal law. Under the lax state gun laws, he was then allowed to conceal and carry his pistol without a permit. On Sunday, Loughner was charged with using the gun in a rampage in a parking lot outside a Tucson supermarket that left... (GunPolicy.org)
Manitoba Gun Amnesty Collects, Destroys Another 297 Firearms
22 November 2010
CBC News (Canada)
Nearly 300 guns were turned over to police in Manitoba during a provincewide police firearms amnesty in October.
Those weapons will now be destroyed, ensuring they are never stolen or used in a crime, Attorney General Andrew Swan stated in a press release.
"I'd like to thank everyone who voluntarily came forward to turn in an unwanted or unused firearm. In the wrong hands, even a single weapon has the potential to wreak havoc and cause tragedies," he said.
October... (GunPolicy.org)
New Gun Law, Amnesty, 5yr Min Penalty for Illicit Guns in Turks & Caicos
14 November 2010
Turks & Caicos Sun
Anyone in the Turks and Caicos Islands who possesses illegal firearms, explosives or ammunition, has until November 30th to hand them over to the police or pastors without being arrested and charged.
After that date, if they are caught with guns and/or ammunition, they must appear before the Supreme Court, and, if found guilty, they will have to spend at least five years in jail.
The gun amnesty and the new, tough sentencing measures were announced by Governor Gordon... (GunPolicy.org)
Tasmania Gun Amnesty Still in Place for Unregistered, Unwanted Guns
21 August 2010
Hobart Mercury (Tasmania)
Police have reminded Tasmanians that the post-Port Arthur massacre amnesty for the surrender of illegal firearms still stands.
Unwanted, unsafe or unregistered firearms and ammunition can be handed in to police or registered firearms dealers.
Inspector Michael Grant said people could do so without fear of prosecution and no questions would be asked.
"People are also reminded that possession of firearms, firearm parts or ammunition without the relevant licence is... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Crime Rate Surged Before Close of Cayman Islands Firearm Amnesty
10 June 2010
Cayman News Service (Cayman Islands)
There have been nine reported crimes involving the use of firearms since the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service started its no-questions-asked gun amnesty, which ends at 7:00pm tonight (Thursday 10 June). From armed robberies at liquor stores and gas stations to street robberies and home invasions, Cayman's criminal element seemed too busy using their weapons to bring them in. The police will be revealing the total quantity and type of weapons collected during the... (GunPolicy.org)
UK Gun Amnesty Ends for Starter Pistol Capable of Deadly Conversion
4 June 2010
STV (Scotland)
A national amnesty for owners of a revolver commonly used as a starting gun has come to an end.
On Friday, the Olympic .380 BBM firearm was reclassified as a prohibited weapon, following fears it could be easily converted to carry live ammunition.
The gun is most commonly used to start races and to train dogs, and has traditionally been available from hobby and model shops as well as firearms dealers.
However, a test carried out by the UK's Forensic Science Service... (GunPolicy.org)
Ex-militants Surrender 20,000 Weapons in 'Faulty' Nigerian Gun Amnesty
13 May 2010
Vanguard (Lagos)
ABUJA - Presidential Adviser on Niger Delta and National Co-ordinator of the Post- Amnesty Programme, Mr. Timi Alaibe, has blamed the lull in the implementation of the programme on lack of proper planning before the announcement of the amnesty, given the fact that the nation was faced with a major crisis in the Niger Delta, at the time.
"We experienced some sort of delay in the programme because there was no structure on ground, no concrete plan document because we... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Gun Amnesty Alleged Fraudulent, Corrupted by Government
25 April 2010
234 Next (Timbuktu)
The federal government's amnesty programme is heading for the rocks with allegations that money meant for the rehabilitation of militants has been embezzled and the youth are now threatening to return to the creeks.
Acting President Goodluck Jonathan who was all too aware of the dangers, moved last week to salvage public confidence in the programme by restructuring it.
Under the new structure, Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta Affairs, Timi Alaibe, would... (GunPolicy.org)
Amnesty Sparked by UK Shooting Collects, Destroys 'Loose' Guns, Airguns
14 April 2010
BBC News
A gun amnesty has been extended after it began in response to a shooting which left three people dead.
Andrew Copland shot his ex-partner Julie Harrison and their four-year-old daughter Maisie before killing himself in Aldershot, an inquest ruled.
The amnesty in north-east Hampshire has so far seen 57 firearms and 985 rounds of ammunitions handed in.
It has been extended until Sunday for people to hand in unwanted or illegal firearms at nine police stations.
Police... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Amnesty Over, Illegal Firearms Can Bring 25yrs in South African Jail
12 April 2010
South African Press Association
Crime Line on Sunday appealed to the public to "blow the whistle" on the use and trade of illegal firearms as the gun amnesty deadline expires.
"Time has run out for gun-owners to surrender their legal and illegal firearms as the gun amnesty period draws to a close today [Sunday]," the head of Crime Line, Yusuf Abramjee, said.
"Now is the time for South Africans to join hands with the police in ensuring a safer South Africa by ridding our streets of illegal... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Owners Still 'Confused' by Years-long South African Firearm Amnesty
8 April 2010
South African Press Association
JOHANNESBURG - As the 2010 firearms amnesty draws to a close this weekend, many gun owners are seeking advice after receiving mixed messages from the police and gun dealers, the SA Gunowners' Association (Saga) said on Thursday.
Spokesperson Martin Hood said the police ministry was acting in bad faith by saying the amnesty period, which ends on April 11, must be used to update old firearm licences.
"By presenting the amnesty as an opportunity for firearm owners to... (GunPolicy.org)
NSW 2009 Gun Amnesty, 4,323 Firearms Collected
23 March 2010
Marketing Magazine (Australia)
Background
In March 2009, the New South Wales Police Force and New South Wales Government implemented a three-month gun amnesty urging Australians to surrender or register illegal firearms. The crackdown on illegal firearms was propelled by a need to lower the number of unregistered weapons in New South Wales (there are many firearms in New South Wales that are not registered by a licensed gun owner and cannot be handed in without repercussion) and remove the threat of... (GunPolicy.org)
Cattle Rustler Kept Waiting 7hrs to Give Up AK-47 in Kenya Gun Amnesty
17 March 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — A cattle rustler who travelled more than 200 kilometres to surrender an illegal firearm had to endure a long wait after he found the district commissioner's office deserted.
The 36-year-old thief travelled from Adurkoit village near the Kenya-Uganda border to the Kapenguria District headquarters to hand his AK-47 rifle to DC Alan Machari.
The man, who was escorted by Adurkoit sub-location assistant chief David Yarangiro and Warriors Rehabilitation... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Amnesty Road Show Aims to Mop Up Illegal South African Firearms
9 March 2010
BuaNews (Tshwane)
MORETELE, South Africa — The North West Department of Public Safety has kicked off the 2010 Firearms Amnesty roadshow in the Moretele Local Municipality.
Public Safety spokesperson Lesiba Kgwele said the campaign sought to amplify the call for residents to surrender illegal firearms and ammunition without being arrested before the April 11 deadline.
The call came after Public Safety MEC Howard Yawa on Friday launched the campaign under the slogan "Awulethe Umshini... (GunPolicy.org)
Karamoja Elder Betrayed by Gun Amnesty, Uganda Army 'Cattle Rustlers'
21 February 2010
Monitor (Kampala)
He has dedicated his life to peace, worked closely with the UPDF to disarm his clansmen and once secured surrender of 200 illegal guns in a day. Today, Mzee Aramutori Lokodo is an angry elder, temporary confined by the government at a top Kampala Hotel, after soldiers allegedly grabbed all his 350 cattle last month. He spoke to Sunday Monitor's Tabu Butagira (through an interpreter) about how the army has become what he called a "cattle-rustling tribe" in Karamoja... (GunPolicy.org)
South Africans Urged Again to Give Up Illegal Guns in Years-long Amnesty
10 February 2010
BuaNews (Tshwane)
NELSPRUIT, South Africa — Mpumalanga community safety MEC Sibongile Manana has urged the public to take advantage of the National Firearm Amnesty and hand in their unlicensed firearms.
Illegal firearms can be handed in at the nearest police station, without the handler fearing arrest if the weapon was not used to commit a crime. The amnesty period runs from January 11 to April 11.
A similar campaign in 2005 resulted in over 98 000 weapons being removed from... (GunPolicy.org)
Cuba Declares Gun Amnesty, Gives Owners 2 Months to Register Firearms
1 February 2010
Associated Press
HAVANA, Cuba - Cuba has declared a two-month amnesty for citizens to register unlicensed guns, and says those passing aptitude and psychological tests will be allowed to keep their weapons.
The move is unusual in a state where almost no one except some active military personnel and plain-clothed state security agents are allowed to possess weapons.
Even most police officers are required to leave their pistols at the station or in a regional barracks when on vacation... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Destroy Another 80,611 Guns in South African Firearm Amnesty
15 January 2010
South African Press Association
JOHANNESBURG - Gun control campaigners welcomed the destruction of 80 611 guns by the SA Police Service on Friday.
The weapons thrown into the furnace included guns recovered through the ongoing nationwide firearm amnesty, as well as obsolete police weapons and guns previously recovered by police from crime scenes.
IANSA (International Action Network on Small Arms) Africa said the destruction sent a positive signal to South Africans that the firearms amnesty would... (GunPolicy.org)
Over 1700 Guns Netted in Amnesty, Gun Crime Up Since 2002
14 January 2010
Advertiser (Adelaide)
A Government gun amnesty has taken 1731 unwanted or illegal firearms off the streets and some out of the hands of criminals, Police Minister Michael Wright said.
The three-month amnesty, which ended on December 31 last year, reaped 1025 working guns and 706 imitation firearms.
Opposition spokesman David Ridgway said police statistics showed firearm/weapon offences have increased 20.6 per cent since 2002.
Since 2006, more than 4300 firearms or imitation guns have been... (GunPolicy.org)
Firearm Amnesty Law 'an Insult' say South African Shooters
12 January 2010
Richmark Sentinel
The new firearm amnesty has kicked off with all the pomp and ceremony that the police can muster for what may well prove to be a pivotal moment in gun ownership in South Africa.
The problem is that there are unresolved issues relating to the Firearms Control Act of 2000 (Act) which still have to be sorted out.
Chief among these is the application before the High Court, brought by the SA Hunters and Game Conservation Association, to declare certain parts of the Act... (GunPolicy.org)
Impact of South Africa's Gun Amnesty Questioned
11 January 2010
Mercury (Durban)
With thousands of illegal firearms in circulation around the country, contributing to the high rate of serious and violent crimes, most political parties have welcomed the four-month gun amnesty that begins today, saying it will spur people with illegal firearms to surrender their weapons.
The amnesty runs until April 11 and allows people to hand in illegal, unregistered firearms at any police station, without fear of prosecution.
IFP spokesperson Velaphi Ndlovu said... (GunPolicy.org)
UK Man Caught Using 'I'm a Spy' Lie to Escape 'Dirty Harry' Handgun Rap
17 December 2009
Telegraph (UK)
A secret intelligence analyst, Neil McLellan, who escaped jail on firearms charges by claiming his job at GCHQ was pivotal to national security is behind bars after it was disclosed he had lied about his employment under oath.
The 49 year-old escaped jail despite admitting possession of a "Dirty Harry" style .44 magnum handgun, after he lied about working at the intelligence centre in Cheltenham, Glos.
He was given a suspended sentence after he claimed jailing him... (GunPolicy.org)
4,000 Guns Surrendered, Registered in East Visayas Firearm Amnesty
14 December 2009
Philippine Daily Inquirer (Visayas)
TACLOBAN CITY, Philippines — The campaign of the Philippine National Police (PNP) on gun amnesty program, which ended last month, yielded more than 4,000 firearms in Eastern Visayas.
Although the gun amnesty yielded only about 10 percent of the total estimated 43,400 loose firearms in the region, PNP Eastern Visayas information officer Senior Superintendent Manuel Cubillo described the campaign as successful.
"We were only given a target of about nine percent by our... (GunPolicy.org)
Nova Scotia Gun Amnesty, Buyback Swaps Cameras for 1,074 Firearms
3 December 2009
CBC News (Canada)
NOVA SCOTIA - More than 1,000 guns were collected during a month-long gun amnesty program in the Halifax area, police announced Thursday.
The Pixels for Pistols program, which began Nov. 2, allowed local residents to turn in working guns in exchange for a new digital camera. Broken guns or ammunition could be traded for a gift card worth about $80.
The program was a partnership between the police department and Henry's, a camera and photography business.
By the time... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Target 800,000 Loose Guns in Wake of Philippines Gun Massacre
2 December 2009
Manila Bulletin
Philippine National Police (PNP) has started the crackdown on all loose firearms and delinquent gun owners following the termination of the two-month nationwide gun amnesty on Monday.
Director General Jesus Verzosa, PNP chief, said that their determination to account for the estimated 800,000 remaining loose firearms across the country was further buoyed by what he described as "tradition of feudal politics and clan conflict" that precipitated the massacre of 57... (GunPolicy.org)
Last Days for Gun Amnesty Handover in Victoria
28 October 2009
Advertiser (Adelaide)
There are just a few days left to surrender weapons to Victoria Police under its month-long arms amnesty.
More than 10 items have so far been handed in to Wodonga officers during the statewide weapons and firearms amnesty, including five guns and five knives or swords.
Benalla police also received five firearms as well as ammunition.
The scheme, which runs all October, allows people the chance to surrender any unwanted or illegal item without penalty.
Insp Gavan... (GunPolicy.org)
Illegal Guns Flood Mindanao, Fuel Insecurity, Promote Armed Violence
23 September 2009
IRIN (UN News)
DAPIAWAN, Philippines — A .45 calibre pistol is tucked into the waistband of a tricycle driver as he speeds along a desolate stretch of highway that cuts through a Muslim rebel stronghold in the southern Philippine town of Datu Piang in Mindanao.
"I can get attacked by bandits, rebels or my enemies, and my gun spells the difference between life and death," he told IRIN.
Similar scenarios are played out across this strife-torn, southern island, where violence borne... (GunPolicy.org)
Illegal Firearms Targeted by Gun Amnesty in Zambia's Western Province
16 September 2009
Post (Zambia)
SENANGA — Western Province permanent secretary Ikanuke Noyoo has appealed to people with illegal firearms in the province to surrender them to the government since the amnesty was still in place.
In interview, Noyoo said that Western Province's Shangombo, Kalabo and Kaoma were the worst affected districts with illegal firearms in civilian hands.
"The Minister of Home Affairs has already put in place a programme to dispatch security personnel to these areas so that... (GunPolicy.org)
New Bedford Churches, Synagogues Offer 'No Questions' Gun Amnesty
14 September 2009
South Coast Today (Massachusetts)
NEW BEDFORD — The city's faith community is taking a renewed stand against gun violence, teaming with city and law enforcement officials to run anti-gun seminars, organizing a community-wide walk for peace with Bishop George W. Coleman and offering churches as "safe-havens" where gun owners can turn in their weapons "with no questions asked."
Several local priests, ministers and rabbis plan to use their pulpits this weekend to preach a message of peace. That will be... (GunPolicy.org)
Slovakia Launches Gun Amnesty, Aims to Collect Unregistered Firearms
10 September 2009
SITA Online (Baratislava)
BRATISLAVA — As of October, citizens of Slovakia will have seven months to hand in illegally held arms and ammunition without being charged for it.
This stems from amendment to the law on arms and ammunition, which lawmakers approved in the third reading. Of the 129 deputies present in the150-member parliament, 119 supported the bill.
The ministry estimates that the number of illegally held firearms and ammunition will decrease thanks to the amnesty, and will also... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Admit Failure as Philippine Gun Amnesty Falters in Cebu
9 September 2009
Cebu Daily News
SENIOR Supt. Jesus Gaquing, Cebu provincial police director, yesterday admitted that the police were faring poorly in the campaign against loose firearms.
He said the police were only able to seize 51 unlicensed firearms in August, way below the target of 300.
Gaquing held a command conference yesterday with the chiefs of police of municipalities and component cities.
Police have two programs for loose firearms: the Oplan Bilang Boga for firearms for expired license... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Offer Reward for Tip-offs Leading to Illegal Guns in Philippines
21 August 2009
Daily Tribune (Manila)
The Philippine National Police (PNP) will establish a rewards program for persons who can pinpoint the existence of loose firearms after the end of the gun amnesty period on Oct. 31, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Ronaldo Puno said yesterday.
Puno said once these loose or unlicensed guns are confiscated, the PNP might opt to donate them to the local police station in the barangay or town where these were seized.
"There will be a rewards... (GunPolicy.org)
20,000 Expired-licence Gun Owners Apply for Philippine Firearm Amnesty
11 August 2009
Philippine Daily Inquirer
MANILA, Philippines — In its first month of implementation, the Philippine National Police's gun amnesty program has already attracted almost 20,000 gun owners with expired licenses, Director General Jesus Verzosa said on Tuesday.
As of July 31, a total of 19,824 expired firearms licenses had already been renewed out of the estimated 559,326 loose firearms with expired licenses, Verzosa said.
The final gun amnesty of the PNP is expected to last until... (GunPolicy.org)
Rebels Retain Their Weapons in Slow Start for Niger Delta Gun Amnesty
10 August 2009
Inter Press Service News Agency
Nigeria's president Umaru Yar'Adua is embarking on an ambitious move to end armed insurgency in the country's oil-rich Niger Delta region.
Under a government initiative which started on Aug, 6, militants in the region have 60 days to hand over their arms in return for a presidential amnesty, unconditional pardon and reintegration programme.
As the first week of the amnesty period draws to a close, only a few weapons have been handed over at designated screening... (GunPolicy.org)
Guns to Be Beaten Into Gardening Tools in Philippine Firearm Amnesty
3 August 2009
Philippine Daily Inquirer
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police Tuesday said it will start accepting applications for gun licenses under a new firearms amnesty program on Aug. 1.
The amnesty program, approved by Malacañang earlier this month, aims to reduce gun-related violence in next year's presidential election.
Police estimate there are roughly 1.1 million unregistered firearms around the country.
At the launch of its national secretariat for the Firearms Control Program... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Amnesty 'Minimalist, Lazy Way of Enforcing Law' in Philippines
17 July 2009
ABS-CBN News (Manila), Column
Once again, the government is issuing a general firearms amnesty. In October, all those whose guns are not duly licensed may have their weapons registered, no questions asked.
Amnesties are meant to encourage those who are in violation of the law to straighten out their situation. But how often should amnesties be given? If it is given too often, people are not pushed to comply with the law from the start.
This is the case with gun amnesty. Those who are using... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Dealers Air Concern at Philippine Police Plan for Weapon Amnesty
11 July 2009
Manila Bulletin
An organization of firearms dealers in the country expressed concern over the government's gun amnesty program which will be implemented in October this year, saying that the strategy of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in its campaign on loose firearms would only benefit gun smugglers.
Lawyer Hector Rodriguez, president Association of Firearms and Ammunition Dealers (AFAD), said that the PNP should have learned its lesson when the eight gun amnesty programs they... (GunPolicy.org)
Most Recent Australian Gun Amnesty Nets More Than 4,300 Weapons
9 June 2009
Sydney Morning Herald / AAP
A three-month gun amnesty in NSW has netted more than 4,300 weapons, including 3,000 rifles.
NSW Police Minister Tony Kelly said the firearms amnesty, which ran from March 1 until May 31, had resulted in 4,323 firearms being handed in.
Under the amnesty, those with a gun licence but unregistered weapons were able to register them.
People without a gun licence were able to surrender their firearms without penalty to any police station.
The weapons handed in included... (GunPolicy.org)
Amnesty Nets Hundreds of Guns for Destruction in Australian Capital
3 June 2009
ABC News (Australia)
Hundreds of guns have been handed into ACT police during a three-month gun amnesty.
During the amnesty — which ends on Sunday — unregistered and prohibited firearms can be given up to police without penalty.
Around 220 guns and 6,000 rounds of ammunition have been surrendered.
More than 700 additional firearms have also been registered during the period.
ACT Chief Police Officer Michael Phelan says some weapons will be tested for links to unsolved crimes and... (GunPolicy.org)
3,299 Firearms Surrendered in New South Wales Gun Amnesty
26 May 2009
Daily Telegraph (Sydney)
More than 3000 guns have been handed in to police in a state-wide firearms amnesty.
Cootamundra residents handed in more illegal weapons than any other police district.
NSW police said 3299 firearms were handed in during the amnesty which runs until May 31.
Cootamundra police collected 200 guns from a population of about 7000.
Around NSW, police have received 75 replica firearms, 777 rounds of ammunition, 157 firearm parts and 112 telescopic sights during the... (GunPolicy.org)
Sydney Collector Surrenders Military Assault Rifles, Automatic Shotguns
19 April 2009
NSW Police Force, Media release
A collection of prohibited high-powered military-grade weapons, including fully-automatic assault rifles and shotguns, has been handed in to police during the State Government's Firearms Amnesty.
Around 10pm on Wednesday, 15 April, lawyers for a local gun owner attended the Manly Police Station and presented officers with a large, locked metal box.
When detectives from the State Crime Command's Firearms and Organised Crime Squad opened the box, they discovered an... (GunPolicy.org)
Sydney Gun Dealer, Collector Gives Up Illegal Automatic Assault Weapons
19 April 2009
Sydney Morning Herald
An alleged illegal gun dealer charged by police over a hoard of military firearms, including the first AK-47 assault rifle seized in NSW, has used the gun amnesty to surrender more firearms.
A solicitor acting for Allan Driver, 59, of Elanora Heights, stunned Firearms and Organised Crime Squad officers by surrendering six high-powered weapons and ammunition to Manly police on Wednesday.
Police said the weapons were inside a locked metal strongbox and included a 5.56mm... (GunPolicy.org)
Canberrans Hand In 66 Firearms During ACT Gun Amnesty
14 April 2009
ABC News (Australia)
The ACT Government says 66 unregistered or unlicensed guns have been handed in during the first half of a three month amnesty period.
The amnesty is calling on ACT gun owners without permits will be able to surrender their firearms to police without penalties.
Nine of the weapons handed in are prohibited firearms, including a semi-automatic rifle and a semi-automatic shotgun.
ACT Police Minister Simon Corbell says the results are encouraging and the amnesty is... (GunPolicy.org)
796 Guns Surrendered, 5,000 Registered in Australian Firearm Amnesty
5 April 2009
Australian Associated Press
Owners of more than 5,000 firearms previously unknown to NSW police have come forward during the first month of the state government's gun amnesty.
Police Minister Tony Kelly says 796 firearms have been surrendered in the first month of the amnesty, with applications also taken out to register 5,000 weapons.
The surrendered guns include 606 rifles, 49 handguns, 141 shotguns and 11 replica firearms.
"The police now know where those guns are," Mr Kelly told reporters... (GunPolicy.org)
New Australian Amnesty Sends 796 Guns for Destruction in First Month
4 April 2009
Sydney Morning Herald
Almost 800 illegal firearms have been surrendered during the first month of a three-month amnesty.
NSW Police Minister Tony Kelly said 606 rifles, 49 handguns and 141 shotguns were handed in to police stations across the state since the amnesty began on March 1.
It had netted 11 replica firearms, 151 pieces of ammunition and 76 firearms parts and telescopic sights, while there had been 4932 applications for the registration of firearms that had previously been kept... (GunPolicy.org)
Sudan's Gun Amnesty, Destruction Drive Poorly Planned, Says Report
29 March 2009
Sudan Times
WASHINGTON — A new report by Small Arms Survey describes the disarmament campaign ordered last year by President Salva Kiir Mayardit as "poorly planned, highly decentralized, and inadequately supported by the Government of South Sudan."
The campaign was partly coercive, but "the process was largely non-violent, mainly due to weak implementation in many areas" said the report. This contrasts with a bloody campaign in 2006, especially in Lou Nuer areas.
Based on... (GunPolicy.org)
Manila Police Want Tighter Gun Control Measures to Combat Crime
28 March 2009
Philippine Star
MANILA — Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Jesus Verzosa urged Congress to enact measures that would make illegal possession of high-powered firearms a non-bailable offense.
Verzosa cited a case in Pampanga wherein alleged members of a notorious bank robbery gang were arrested and charged for illegal possession of firearms.
The gang led by a certain Ampang Colangco went on with their robbery spree after the court allowed them to post bail.... (GunPolicy.org)
More Canadian Cops Accused of Stealing, Recirculating Guns in Amnesty
9 March 2009
Globe & Mail (Toronto)
MONTREAL — Lieutenant Raymond Neveu knew the Sept-Îles police station was in big trouble when drugs disappeared from the evidence room.
Then guns strewn about the floor of the exhibit locker went missing, too.
Seven officers are now suspended and two among them, including Lt. Neveu, face criminal charges in a scandal that has exposed chaos in the northern Quebec provincial police outpost.
The case has also brought attention to problems in several police-run gun... (GunPolicy.org)
Three Month Gun Amnesty a 'Success' say VIC Police
4 March 2009
ABC News (Australia)
A three-month firearms amnesty has netted more than 1,100 guns in South Australia.
More than 900 were single-barrel rifles and more than 100 shotguns were turned in.
Some of the guns dated back to late 1800s and early 1900s.
Police Chief Inspector Jim Langmead says a number of the guns handed in were unregistered or illegal.
"The amnesty is that you have the chance to walk in and hand the firearm in and there are basically no questions asked," he said.
"If we were... (GunPolicy.org)
Spate of Shootings Triggers New Gun Amnesty in Australia's Largest State
1 March 2009
Sydney Morning Herald / AAP
A promised NSW-wide three-month gun amnesty has started with police and the state government urging people to register or surrender unlicensed firearms.
The gun crackdown, announced last December, follows a spate of gun related incidents across Sydney.
In mid-December, Sydney man John Kudrytch shot dead his ex-wife, and then himself, despite being the subject of an apprehended violence order (AVO).
Earlier in the month, Josef Cruickshank, 14, was shot by his best... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Amnesty Nets 36 Firearms, Ammunition in Ugandan Province
26 February 2009
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — The Police in Amuria district have recovered 36 guns and 952 rounds of ammunition in the last six months.
The district Police commander, Patrick Karamura, said on Tuesday that the guns were voluntarily handed in with the support of the Amnesty Commission.
"For the six months I have been here, the district and church leaders have helped us to recover the guns," Karamura told journalists in his office.
He said most guns were acquired during the insurgency... (GunPolicy.org)
Quebec Cops, Boss May Have Stolen Weapons in Gun Amnesty [Fr]
24 February 2009
La Presse de Montréal (Québec)
[Translated summary: Five Quebec police officers, including the local post commander, are suspected of stealing firearms surrendered by the public for destruction. Four have been suspended and one has been assigned to adminitrative duties].
Ça ne tourne pas rond au poste de la Sûreté du Québec à Sept-Îles. Le directeur du poste, deux sous-officiers et deux agents font l'objet d'une enquête dans une affaire d'armes à feu. Un autre agent est accusé d'abus de... (GunPolicy.org)
Canadian Cop Abused Gun Amnesty, Diverted Guns Headed for Smelter
18 February 2009
Star Phoenix (Saskatchewan)
A Calgary police officer who was accused of abusing a gun amnesty program pleaded guilty Tuesday to one charge of careless storage of a firearm.
Dean Pankewicz, 43, was also facing four other charges, including trafficking and illegal possession of a firearm, but those were dropped after he pleaded guilty to careless storage.
The 18-year police veteran was charged after an investigation into the sales of firearms that were supposed to be destroyed in a provincial gun... (GunPolicy.org)
Congo Gun Amnesty, Buyback to Collect 3,000 Weapons for Destruction
13 February 2009
IRIN (UN News)
BRAZZAVILE — The Congolese government has started an operation to buy 3,000 weapons from ex-combatants and others illegally possessing weapons in the Pool region, southern Congo, an official told IRIN on 11 February.
"Teams have been deployed on the ground. The operation to buy up the weapons started on 10 February in Pool region. It should allow the purchase of at least 3,000 weapons still in circulation in this zone," Moandzibi Olingoba, commissioner in charge of... (GunPolicy.org)
NSW Police 'Sick and Tired' of Licensed Owners Leaking Guns to Crims
23 December 2008
Daily Telegraph (Sydney)
The State Government has declared war on weapons, vowing to end the wave of gun and knife crime engulfing Sydney that has claimed three lives in just two weeks.
The state-wide crackdown, including a three-month gun amnesty, comes as the father of a teenager stabbed to death begged youths not to carry knives. Etikailahi Motuliki wept yesterday as he pleaded for an end to the senseless violence that claimed the life of his eldest son Andrew, 17, during a brawl on board a... (GunPolicy.org)
Family Shootings Put Focus on Gun Control in New South Wales
23 December 2008
Australian Associated Press
SYDNEY — Time goes very quickly when you're staring down the barrel of a gun.
It ran out too fast for Melissa Cook, who was fatally shot by her ex-husband John Kudrytch last week while she stood behind the counter of a BP service station in Casula, in Sydney's south-west.
In the following days, the NSW government announced it would hold a three-month gun amnesty next year to get illegal firearms off the streets.
But time was not on the government's side either: Ms... (GunPolicy.org)
Criminals Unlikely to Hand Over Many Illegal Guns in NSW Amnesty
23 December 2008
Australian Associated Press
The NSW government has announced a three-month amnesty for unregistered and unlicensed firearms in a crackdown on gun crime across the state.
But the initiative has been criticised by the opposition and a gun control expert.
Police Minister Tony Kelly said the amnesty would begin on March 1 next year to give those with unregistered guns an opportunity to hand them in to police.
Under the amnesty, people without a gun licence will be able to surrender their firearms... (GunPolicy.org)
New South Australian Gun Laws Target Bikies, Drug Gangs
26 November 2008
Advertiser (Adelaide)
New gun laws described by Premier Mike Rann as the toughest in Australia will come into effect from midnight tonight.
The main target of the new laws are outlaw motorcycle gangs and police will have the power to issue prohibition orders against people found near an illegal weapon or in the company of someone with a weapon.
The maximum sentence under the new laws has been increased from two years to 15.
A three-month gun amnesty will also begin on December 1 and run... (GunPolicy.org)
2,400 Weapons Handed In to Victoria Police Firearm Amnesty
19 November 2008
Australian Associated Press
A cricket stump with screws sticking out of it and two historic 1840s pistols are among more than 2,400 weapons handed in to Victorian police during an amnesty.
Guns, knives and other weapons, like a 19th century police sword, pistol silencer and numchuckers were handed in to Victorian police stations during October.
Police gave people the opportunity to hand in unwanted, unregistered or illegal weapons without questions being asked or any danger of penalty or... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Amnesty Expires as Few Pay to Register Firearms in Philippines
2 November 2008
Cebu News
CEBU — Gun owners have until November 14, 2008 to register their firearms with the Philippine National Police, as the one year amnesty period for loose or unlicensed firearms also ends on that day pursuant to Executive Order No. 585-A.
However, homemade guns or those known as "paltik" guns are not qualified for registration, said SPO3 Zenaido Sanches of the Firearms, Explosive and Security Agencies/Guards Supervisory Section.
Zenaido said their office will only... (GunPolicy.org)
Toronto Cops Swap 'Loose' Guns for Digital Nikons, No Questions Asked
22 October 2008
Toronto Star (Ontario)
The gun used to kill Toronto police officer Todd Bayliss in 1994 was stolen. The World War II souvenir was taken from a locked closet.
A handgun implicated in the Boxing Day 2005 shooting of student Jane Creba was also procured by illicit means, among countless other examples, criminologists say.
That's why gun amnesty programs, such as the novel one by Toronto police that begins today, are so important.
"It's one of the many measures that can help," Ryerson... (GunPolicy.org)
Spate of Shootings Spurs South Australia to Plan Another Gun Amnesty
13 October 2008
Australian (Sydney)
The South Australian Government is considering a gun amnesty after a spate of shootings in Adelaide.
The city's restaurant district in Gouger Street has been the scene of three shootings in recent months, including one involving rival gangs that sent diners diving for cover.
Police Minister Michael Wright said today he would raise the gun amnesty plan this week with Police Commissioner Mal Hyde.
He said it was hoped the plan would clear the streets of illegal,... (GunPolicy.org)
Toronto's 'Pixels for Pistols' Gun Buyback Offers Cameras for Weapons
25 September 2008
Globe & Mail (Toronto)
If swords can be turned into plowshares, maybe aging firearms can be swapped for brand-new digital cameras. And while few foresee a plunge in Toronto's homicide rate as a result of its newest gun amnesty, perhaps — perhaps — its streets will be a little safer.
There's no guarantee of that. The city has promoted several such amnesties in recent years, as have many other Canadian jurisdictions, and in terms of denting gun crime, the results appear... (GunPolicy.org)
Timor's Controversial Gun Amnesty 'A Bit Pointless,' No Real Success
2 September 2008
ABC Radio Australia (Shortwave)
East Timor's six-month gun amnesty has ended, but the controversery surrounding the program has not.
The police operation to collect illegal weapons from civilians began immediately after the president was shot by a gang of armed rebels in February.
Under the operation, citizens who handed in weapons of their own volition would not be prosecuted.
Interim Police Commander Afonso De Jesus says the task force assigned to the operation netted mostly antique and home... (GunPolicy.org)
Lawmakers Polarised as East Timor Debates Permitting Gun Ownership
1 September 2008
ABC Radio Australia (Shortwave), Transcript
East Timor's six month gun amnesty has ended. The opposition is describing it as pointless, saying the government should be trying to recover the weapons taken from police during the 2006 crisis. But the government is now focusing on getting its new gun law through parliament.
Presenter: Stephanie March
Speakers: Afonso De Jesus, East Timor's Interim Police Commander; Estanislau Da Silva, former interim prime minister and current Freitilin MP.
MARCH: The police... (GunPolicy.org)
New Gun Amnesty, Buyback, 'Disarmament Caravan' in Brazil [PT]
29 July 2008
Jornal do Brasil (Brazil) / Portal Terra
[Translated summary: Federal Police official explains "disarmament caravan" that will take place later this year to collect guns from isolated places in Brazil, in new gun buy-back campaign with the participation of civil society].
BRASÍLIA — A Polícia Federal, por meio do Ministério da Justiça, deve firmar convênios e criar a caravana do desarmamento para recolher armas em pontos isolados do Brasil.
- A idéia é ir um pessoal e ficar na cidade por um ou dois... (GunPolicy.org)