Gun Policy News
Firearm violence, gun control and small arms
Uganda Increases Costs for Gun Licenses
27 August 2021
Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Government has proposed to increase gun licensing fees from Shs150,000 to Shs5 million for private gun owners according to the 2017/2018 financial year budget estimates.
The development was communicated by the State Minister for Planning David Bahati while appearing before the Parliamentary Budget Committee.
This follows an increase in gun related crimes in the country with the most recent being the murder of AIGP Felix Kaweesi, his driver and body guard by armed... (GunPolicy.org)
52 Guns Recovered Over Disarmament Exercise in Uganda
17 August 2021
Daily Monitor (Uganda)
The joint security force of police and the army has cautioned residents and others wishing to visit Karamoja to desist from using motorcycles to access the area.
The warning was issued by Karamoja Regional Police Spokesperson, Mr Michael Longole, while addressing the media on Monday.
He said riding motorcycles through the lonely routes such as Moroto, Kotido, Moroto, Nakapiripirit, Moroto Nabulatuk should be avoided at this time when the disarmament exercise is taking... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenyan President Sets Fire to More Than 5 000 Illegal Guns
10 June 2021
Independent Online (IOL)
Kenya's President Uhuru Kenyatta on Wednesday set alight more than 5 000 illegal firearms in a gesture to highlight the importance of peaceful resolutions to conflict.
Kenyatta set fire to 5144 illegal firearms, in addition to out-of-date state-owned guns, at the Regional Traffic Police Training Centre located in Ngong, west of the capital Nairobi, State House Kenya reported.
"A peaceful Kenya, a united Kenya is for the good of all of us. And that can only be achieved... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Burns Over 5,000 Illegal Firearms to Curb Crime
10 June 2021
AfricaNews
The Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta on Wednesday presided over the burning of 5,144 illegal firearms and obsolete state-owned small arms and light weapons at the Regional Traffic Police Training Centre in Ngong, Kajiado County.
He further called on those making homemade guns to join the newly built government facility that produces guns.
"This is to those making illegal guns, come we make legal money and jobs. Come forward and declare you can make a gun and you will... (GunPolicy.org)
Work Can Be a Violent Experience For Zimbabwe's Forest Rangers
9 February 2021
Conversation
As cases of poaching rise across Africa's protected areas, some governments have responded with a military approach to nature conservation. From as early as the mid 1980s, military forces themselves were used to enforce conservation, as were military strategies and technologies and paramilitary personnel. In 2011, about 165 South African soldiers were deployed to the Kruger National Park, and soldiers were deployed to Zimbabwe's national parks in 2015. Deployment of... (GunPolicy.org)
The Roots of Pre-Election Carnage by Uganda Security Forces
20 January 2021
Conversation (Uganda)
For two days in November 2020, Uganda witnessed some of the most violent riots in a decade. The riots were triggered by the arrest of opposition presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi, who is challenging the incumbent Yoweri Museveni in the February 14 2021 election. Authorities alleged that Kyagulanyi, better known as Bobi Wine, had consistently disregarded COVID-19 related election campaign guidelines limiting gatherings to no more than 200 people.
In the violence... (GunPolicy.org)
Democratization of Gun Ownership in Uganda
4 October 2020
Daily Monitor (Uganda)
On November 12, 2016, Mr Matthew Kanyamunyu was arrested on suspicion that he drew a pistol and fatally shot Kenneth Akena after the social worker sideswiped his car at Forest Mall in Lugogo, Kampala.
In the shooting's aftermath, questions continue swirling around crime, punishment, impunity and even tribalism. Predictably, these questions obviate other questions about gun ownership.
Even though government has increased license fees for individuals and companies... (GunPolicy.org)
The Do's and Don'ts of Gun-handling in Uganda
11 September 2020
Daily Monitor (Uganda)
On the morning of September 5, a video clip showed State minister for Labour Mwesigwa Rukutana grabbing a gun from a police officer before aiming it at people in a car.
What followed is a long story. I review this safety and security incident by questioning and trying to answer to the question. This article tries to show what should be followed when one has or uses a firearm.
Firearms have different sizes and they include pistols, AK47, machine guns, anti-aircraft... (GunPolicy.org)
Ethiopia's 2020 Gun Control Law: The Key Details
10 January 2020
AfricaNews
Ethiopia's parliament passed a new gun control law amid rising deadly violence across the country. The Firearm Administration and Control proclamation, passed into law by the country's upper house of parliament on Thursday, is seen as a key tool to combat insecurity in the country.
The legislation bans private trade in weapons and prescribes tough prison sentences for illegal possession of firearms.
Under the new law:
- An individual can own only one gun.
- The... (GunPolicy.org)
Ethiopia Passes Gun Control Law to Tackle Surge in Violence
9 January 2020
Reuters
ADDIS ABABA (Reuters) - Ethiopia's parliament passed legislation on Thursday aimed at curbing gun ownership after a surge in regional ethnic violence blamed on a proliferation of small arms in private hands.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's government said last April that it had seized 21 machine guns, more than 33,000 handguns, 275 rifles and 300,000 bullets in different parts of the Horn of Africa country over the previous year.
In October security forces confiscated a... (GunPolicy.org)
Ethiopia Passes New Gun Law to Combat Ethnic Violence
9 January 2020
Reuters
ADDIS ABABA - Ethiopia's parliament passed legislation on Thursday aimed at curbing gun ownership after a surge in regional ethnic violence blamed on a proliferation of small arms in private hands.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's government said last April that it had seized 21 machine guns, more than 33,000 handguns, 275 rifles and 300,000 bullets in different parts of the Horn of Africa country over the previous year.
In October security forces confiscated a further... (GunPolicy.org)
Licensed Guns and Homicides in Uganda
30 March 2019
Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Kampala- At least 16 people have been shot dead by licensed guns since the start of the year, a search through publicly available information shows.
Five of the victims were shot dead by security guards after they were involved in arguments with the guards or were accused of committing crime, while the rest were killed by policemen on accusations of being criminal suspects.
With the killing in cold blood of Ronald Ssebulime last weekend still fresh, however, it is... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda to Audit All Police Guns
15 December 2017
Daily Monitor (Uganda)
The Inspector General of Police, Gen Kale Kayihura has ordered for an audit of all police guns.
In his directive to the in charge of classified stores, Commissioner of Police Good Mwesigwa, Gen Kayihura says the full audit is to start with all police pistols.
He has also demanded for a full accountability of all police pistols and other firearms adding that a computerized register of all the guns be developed.
In a letter dated December 13, 2017, Gen Kayihura also... (GunPolicy.org)
United States,Botswana,Cook Islands,Fiji,Iceland,Ireland,Kiribati,Malawi,Marshall Islands,Nauru,New Zealand,Niue,Norway,Samoa,Solomon Islands,Tonga,Tuvalu,United Kingdom,Vanuatu,Virgin Islands (US)
The 19 Countries That Do Not Arm Their Police Officers
19 July 2017
CNN
A woman who called 911 to report a nearby crime was killed by a US police officer last weekend. The circumstances surrounding her death are still unclear.
The fatal shooting of Justine Ruszczyk, a dual Australian-US national who had settled in Minnesota in 2014, has made headlines in both her native Australia and her adopted home in Minneapolis – once again reigniting the all too familiar debate surrounding the role that firearms play in both law enforcement and in... (GunPolicy.org)
Government Raises Firearm Licence Fees in Uganda
25 April 2017
Observer (Kampala)
Government has increased license fees for individuals and companies importing firearms into the country.
Estimates of non-tax revenue (NTR) rates tabled before Parliament by the finance ministry show that gun importers and owners will part with Shs 5 million each.
Currently, any company which seeks a permit to acquire or import a firearm pays Shs 1 million per year. A private security company also pays Shs 200,000 for an application to import or acquire firearms.
The... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Destroys 6,000 Illegal Guns
21 November 2016
K FM (Uganda)
In an effort to reduce the amount of illicit arms, the government has today destroyed 6000 small arms and weapons collected by police in a nationwide exercise.
In his speech during the exercise in Bukasa, Wakiso District, the state minister for internal affairs Mario Obigo Kania said such arms pose a major security threat if poorly managed and stored.
He also added that improving human security shouldn't be a responsibility of only the security agencies but also... (GunPolicy.org)
5,250 Illegal Firearms Destroyed in Kenya [FR]
15 November 2016
Africa News
[Translated summary: Kenya has burned 5,250 firearms as part of a campaign to fight poaching and robberies and to eliminate terrorism. The destroyed firearms were seized in police operations or recovered in disarmament exercises. Citizens have also been urged to register their firearms.]
Le vice-président kenyan, William Ruto, a incité ce mardi les autorités à brûler 5.250 armes légères.
Ceci s'inscrit dans le cadre des efforts déployés pour lutter contre... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Destroys 5,250 Seized Guns to Slow Armed Violence
15 November 2016
Washington Post, Associated Press
NAIROBI — Kenya's deputy president on Tuesday set ablaze more than 5,250 firearms seized by authorities to discourage the circulation of illegal weapons in a country battling extremist violence.
Deputy President William Ruto presided over the burning of rifles and pistols in three stacks about 15 feet high. They were recovered in this East African country over the past nine years, Ruto said.
Most of the firearms were collected through voluntary surrender, others... (GunPolicy.org)
Over 1,200 People Allegedly Shot Dead by Police in Kenya
28 October 2016
al Jazeera
Kenyan police have been accused of more than 1,200 shooting deaths over the past five years amid calls for the government to investigate extrajudicial killings and disappearances.
Only one police officer in Kenya has been successfully prosecuted and imprisoned for an unlawful killing in the last three years, according to the local group Independent Medico-Legal Unit, which monitors police violence.
New York-based Human Rights Watch has also highlighted at least 34... (GunPolicy.org)
Israel Gun Trade 'Helping to Fuel South Sudan War,' Says UN
20 October 2016
Times of Israel
A United Nations panel of experts found evidence of "well-established networks" of arms suppliers in Eastern Europe and the Middle East, including from Israel, that are fueling the war in South Sudan.
In a confidential report to the Security Council obtained by AFP on Thursday, the panel described the arms deals that are not recent and involve Israeli and Bulgarian firms.
The Council has threatened to impose an arms embargo on South Sudan to try to end the fighting... (GunPolicy.org)
UN Approved Arms Imports: Guns Resold in Somalia Markets
11 October 2016
New York Times, Reuters
Many guns imported by the Somali government with U.N. approval are being resold by arms dealers on the black market in the nation's capital Mogadishu, two Western diplomats said.
Such sales violate a three-year-old deal which exempted government weapons imports from a U.N. arms embargo. The U.N. Security Council partially lifted it in 2013 to equip government forces fighting al Qaeda-linked al Shabaab militants.
The United Nations imposed a blanket arms embargo on... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Police Kill 140+ in 2015: Other Countries Patrol Unarmed
2 October 2016
Daily Nation (Nairobi), Report
When it comes to killings, Kenya police has few equals: They kill more people in days than other countries do in years, a Nation Newsplex analysis reveals.
Studies around the world have linked the number and rate of police killings to factors such as whether police are armed all the time, gun ownership rates, adherence to police guidelines firearms use, quality of training offered to police recruits and poverty levels.
With a police killing rate of 3.2 per million... (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)
Saudi Arabia,Afghanistan,Bulgaria,Italy,Syria,Czech Republic,Iran,Libya,Yemen,United Kingdom,Ukraine,United States,South Sudan,France
World Powers Accused of Violating Arms Trade Treaty [ES]
23 August 2016
IPS Noticias
[Translated summary: Human Rights organisations and military analysts accuse the United States, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, France and Italy of violating the Arms Trade Treaty by selling to countries in conflict. Experts say that effectively implementing the treaty could save millions of lives.]
NACIONES UNIDAS - Los grandes proveedores de armamento violan el tratado que regula su comercio y que se propone frenar el flujo de armas pequeñas y ligeras hacia las zonas de... (GunPolicy.org)
Yemen,Syria,South Sudan,United States,Bulgaria,Czech Republic,France,Italy,Egypt,Ukraine,Moldova,Slovakia,United Kingdom,Saudi Arabia,Germany,Spain
UN: No Tolerance for States Who Flout Arms Trade Treaty
22 August 2016
Amnesty International (London)
- States Parties [countries] still engaging in unscrupulous arms transfers, putting lives and human rights at risk
- More than a quarter of States Parties are yet to meet the treaty's reporting obligations
- Some States Parties opting to reject public scrutiny of their arms transfers
States must ensure the global Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) lives up to its promise to save lives and protect human rights from the devastating effects of the international arms trade by taking... (GunPolicy.org)
United States,China,Germany,United Kingdom,France,Russia,Spain,Italy,Israel,India,Saudi Arabia,United Arab Emirates,Pakistan,Australia,Turkey,Singapore,South Korea,South Sudan,Ukraine
Killer Facts: The Scale of the Global Arms Trade, Gun Totals
22 August 2016
Amnesty International (London)
Transfers of heavy conventional weapons
The top 10 exporters of conventional arms (excluding small arms/ light weapons – SALW) 2010-15
USA: US$55.006 billion
Russia: US$42.404 billion
China: US$9.943 billion
Germany: US$ 9.467 billion
France: US$ 8.932 billion
UK: US$ 7.627 billion
Spain: US$ 5.310 billion
Italy: US$ 4.360 billion
Ukraine: US$ 4.156 billion
Israel: US$ 3.280 billion
The top 10 importers of conventional arms (excluding SALWs) 2010-15
India:... (GunPolicy.org)
Ethiopia Hopes to Control Illegal Firearms with New Gun Law
14 August 2016
The Ethiopian Herald
INTERVIEW
Ethiopia has prepared a draft proclamation to control illicit flow of small arms and light weapons. Last week, EPA reporters have held an exclusive interview with Haneta Geberemedhin, Deputy Commissioner of Federal Police Commission and adviser to the commissioner regarding the objective and expected outcomes of the draft proclamation. Excerpts:
- Guns are owned [by citizens/individuals] both legally and illegally in our country. How does that come up? What... (GunPolicy.org)
Rwanda,Kenya,Tanzania,Burundi,Uganda
Armed Violence and Illegal Guns in East Africa - Recent Study
26 July 2016
New Times (Rwanda)
East African Community (EAC) member countries are meeting in Kigali for a validation workshop on the study by the Regional Centre on Small Arms (RECSA) on the status of armed crimes in Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda.
The report dubbed 'Analysis of Armed Crime Rates' released yesterday, in Kigali was conducted between 2010 and March 2016 with the support of African Development Bank (AfDB).
According to the report, Rwanda registered 421 cases related to... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Verification Exercise in Tanzania Registers 14,000 Firearms
22 July 2016
Tanzania Daily News
Over 14,000 firearms have been verified in the past three months, the exercise that helped to collect 198.8m/- as fee for such weapons.
In March, this year, the Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner (RC), Mr Paul Makonda, issued a three-month ultimatum to owners of firearms in the regions to surrender their weapons to the police for verification.
During the exercise a total of 11,602 owners surrendered their weapons for verifications despite some challenges during the... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Ongoing Registration of Illegal Guns Reaches 29
18 July 2016
Hivisasa (Kenya)
The ongoing registration of illegally acquired firearms has received a major boost after six herders from Garissa County surrendered their unlicensed rifles to the government for registration by the relevant county security teams.
According to Garbatula police boss, Kioko Nyamai, the move is expected to expansively trigger a popular desire by other pastoralist groups to register their firearms and further dispel the fears of being disarmed or victimised.
The... (GunPolicy.org)
Ethiopia,Kenya,Burundi,Tanzania,Rwanda,Uganda
Kenya's Private Gun Ownership the Largest in East Africa
11 July 2016
East African (Nairobi)
Kenya has the largest number of guns in civilian hands in eastern Africa amid rising gun attacks while Rwanda has the least, a global survey shows.
Data from Sidney-based GunPolicy.org, a website backed by the United Nations, puts the estimated number of guns possessed by Kenyan civilians at about 680,000, comprising licit and illicit firearms.
Tanzania has 550,000 guns in private hands, Uganda (400,000), Ethiopia (320,000), Burundi (100,000) and 58,000 for... (GunPolicy.org)
Over 200 Firearms Collected from Militia in South Sudan
7 July 2016
Radio Tamazuj (Sudan)
Authorities in South Sudan's Warrap state have collected over 200 firearms from a Gelweng militia in Aguok centre.
A minister of the proposed Gogrial state Adior Kuol Amum said the disarmament exercise took place following a visit by deputy governor Santino Akot Abem.
"This indicates the youth are ready for peace because they will be one enjoys fruit of peace," Adior said.
The move is in line with peace resolutions signed in May between the Aguok and Apuk communities... (GunPolicy.org)
Growing Number of Firearms Among Criminals in Mayotte [FR]
12 June 2016
Mayotte 1ère
[Translated Summary: In one week, there were two cases of criminal activity with handguns in Mayotte. This raised concern about illegal firearms in the country.]
En une semaine, par deux fois des voyous ont agi, armes à feu au poing. Une escalade inquiétante qui confirme les rumeurs persistantes d'armes à feu introduites illégalement dans le département.
Mayotte est bel et bien face au développement d'une forme de grand banditisme. La semaine dernière, les... (GunPolicy.org)
Homemade Guns Surrendered to Police Stations in Tanzania
30 May 2016
Tanzania Daily News
About 61 homemade firearms locally known as gobole owned illegally have been surrendered at different police posts in Katavi Region since the exercise was officially launched on March 21, this year.
The Katavi Regional Commissioner (RC), Mr Damas Nyanda, said the verification exercise will officially end on June 30, this year, saying that so far 61 per cent of firearms verification have been completed and established that most of them are legally owned.
He further... (GunPolicy.org)
Assault Rifles Being Handed in for Registration in Kenya
16 May 2016
Citizen (Kenya)
Residents of Isiolo County continue to take advantage of a government amnesty on the surrender of illegal arms.
Led by area MCA and Isiolo County Assembly Majority Leader Adan Giro, the residents have surrendered a total of nine firearms and hundreds of bullets to the government.
The residents from Kinna ward presented three AK-47 rifles, one M16 rifle, and 302 rounds of ammunition for registration by the sub county security team at Kinna Social Hall in... (GunPolicy.org)
Tanzania's Neighbouring Countries a Source of Illegal Guns
16 May 2016
Citizen (Dar es Salaam)
Mwanza will not win the war against illegal fire arms unless peace is found in neighbouring war torn countries, Mwanza Regional Commander Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police (SACP) has said.
According to the police head ongoing conflict in South Sudan has also contributed to the presence of guns in Tanzania.
"Criminals travel to any country looking for guns and they are often readily available in places such as South Sudan, due to this, the city is experiencing... (GunPolicy.org)
Congo (DRC),North Korea,Rwanda,Burundi
North Korea Giving Guns to Congolese Police, Soldiers: UN
14 May 2016
Daily Mail (UK), Associated Press
UNITED NATIONS — U.N. experts say Congolese army officers and police reported receiving pistols from a group of 30 North Korean instructors training their presidential guard and special police forces, which would appear to be a violation of U.N. sanctions banning Pyongyang from exporting weapons or providing military training.
The panel of experts monitoring U.N. sanctions against Congo said they found that pistols similar to those produced in North Korea were issued... (GunPolicy.org)
Tanzania: Guns to Be Given Back to Owners
29 April 2016
Tanzania Daily News
DODOMA — Firearms that were impounded during anti-poaching campaign dubbed as "operation tokomeza" would be returned after verification of their genuineness and legal ownership, the Prime Minister, Mr Kassim Majaliwa, told the National Assembly here yesterday.
He said that the police force was still going on with the verification exercise to identify a number of things, including genuineness; legal ownership and whether such arms were free from any involvement in... (GunPolicy.org)
Burundi Reports 481 Armed Violence Homicides in 2015 [FR]
28 April 2016
Burundi Africa Generation
[Translated summary: The president of the National Permanent Commission of Fight Against the Proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons claimed that gun violence and insecurity in Burundi remains, despite efforts to fight it. Only in 2015, there have been 481 homicides, mostly perpetrated by men in Mairie de Bujumbura, the capital.]
A Bujumbura, ce lundi 25 avril 2015, l'officier Laurent Kabura, commissaire de police (CP) et président de la CNAP ( Commission... (GunPolicy.org)
Mauritius: Firearms Amendment Supports Arms Trade Treaty
28 April 2016
Government of Mauritius
The Firearms (Amendment) Bill which provides for amendments to the Firearms Act to implement the provisions of the Arms Trade Treaty to which Mauritius is a signatory, was presented by the Prime Minister, Sir Anerood Jugnauth, in the National Assembly. The Bill was voted with amendments on 26 April 2016.
In his presentation, Sir Anerood Jugnauth expressed confidence that the accession of Mauritius to the Arms Trade Treaty and the amendments to the Firearms Act will... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Herders Surrender Illegal Guns for Registration
27 April 2016
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
Three more herders in Isiolo have surrendered, for registration, firearms they were possessing illegally.
This comes just two weeks after Ngarema Member of County Assembly (MCA) Peter Losu registered his G3 rifle.
Two G3 rifles, an AK-47 rifle, five magazines and 66 rounds of ammunition belonging to herders from West Location were presented to the county security team Wednesday.
The herders presented their guns to Isiolo County Commissioner George Natembeya.
Mr... (GunPolicy.org)
Tanzania to Re-Mark All Imported and Registered Guns
23 April 2016
Tanzania Daily News
ARUSHA — Tanzania may soon start marking all sorts of firearms with special engraving to distinguish weapons registered in the country, against those owned in other states, it was revealed in Arusha.
Vice President, Ms Samia Suluhu Hassan, said that with nearly 900,000 light weapons and small arms circulating around the globe, it is vital for Tanzania, as well as other African countries to start engraving special national labels to indicate where each firearm was... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Govt Swoop: Gun Owners Must Register All Firearms
15 April 2016
Observer (Kampala)
By April 30, all firearms in civilians possession must have been registered, the ministry of Internal Affairs said in its latest attempt to crack down on illegal small arms.
Unregistered firearms will be declared illegal, the minister of state for Internal Affairs James Baba said on Monday.
Firearm registration, the minister said, is meant to control small arms and light weapons owned by civilians and maintain proper national control over government stockpiles of all... (GunPolicy.org)
Malawi Poachers Surrender 40 Home-made Guns to Police
13 April 2016
Nyasa Times (Malawi)
Poachers in the north have surrendered over 40 home made guns to authorities in a programme that signals a ceasefire in the battle against poaching in protected areas in the region.
Division manager for Wildlife Department George Qumayo said since January, poachers have voluntarily handed over 44 home made guns used in the poaching of animals in Vwaza Game Reserve and Nyika National Park.
"This shows that we are winning the battle against poaching which has made us to... (GunPolicy.org)
Tighter Gun Control Bill Discussed Once More in South Sudan
12 April 2016
Radio Tamazuj (Sudan)
South Sudan parliament sat Monday after nearly four weeks of having no sitting over disagreements on what agenda should be put before parliamentarians.
The sitting chaired by the Deputy Speaker Mark Nyipoch discussed a joint report of the specialized standing committee for Defence, security and public order and the committee of legislation and justice on the Firearms Bill 2016.
The report was presented by the chairperson of the security committee Samuel Duwar Deng... (GunPolicy.org)
Firearm Licensing Clampdown to Curb Tanzania Gun Crime
10 April 2016
Citizen (Dar es Salaam)
ARUSHA — No new gun permits will be issued in Arusha until an ongoing exercise to verify ownership is complete, regional authorities have said.
Figures on the number of people who legally own firearms in the region are not readily available, but the current verification exercise could help determine that.
There are growing concerns over the spate of armed robberies in Arusha.
Regional commissioner Felix Ntibenda said last week authorities have stopped accepting... (GunPolicy.org)
No New Gun Permits Until Tanzania Completes Firearm Audit
8 April 2016
Citizen (Dar es Salaam)
ARUSHA -- With ongoing confiscations of illegal firearms still underway, Ngorongoro District and regional authorities say they will not issue any fresh firearm permits until the verification exercise is completed.
Arusha regional commissioner Felix Ntibenda made the announcement during the inauguration of a police station at Tengeru on the outskirts of Arusha.
"By virtue of the fact that one is a gemstone dealer is not grounds for one to possess weapons," he pointed... (GunPolicy.org)
Currently There Are 6500 Licensed Gun Owners in Kenya
8 April 2016
Citizen Digital (Kenya)
The High Court sitting in Nairobi has extended orders barring the government from withdrawing Mombasa Governor Ali Hassan Joho's security and firearms.
The court before Judge George Odunga further directed that documents be served to respective parties and responses be effected pending hearing of the matter on the 16th of June 2016.
The Firearms Licensing Board, Interior Cabinet Secretary Major Gen. (Rtd.) Joseph Nkaissery, Chief Licensing Officer and Inspector... (GunPolicy.org)
African Nations Should Tighten Gun Registration: Tanzania
3 April 2016
Tanzania Daily News
Tanzania has called upon other countries to review the law on domestic firearm registration to cope with the current situation, in order to address the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons.
Addressing parliamentarians for Global Action meeting in Dar es Salaam yesterday, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr Tulia Ackson, said the firearms registration should reflect the challenges the world faces today.
"Here in Tanzania, we undertook such an exercise... (GunPolicy.org)
Tanzania: Politicians Involved in Illegal Small Arms Trade
3 April 2016
Guardian (Dar Es Salaam)
Politicians are said to be contributing to illegal arms trade by supporting and deliberately arming rebel groups to accomplish their narrow interests.
A senior government official made this observation in Dar es Salaam yesterday at an Africa parliamentary workshop on addressing illicit trade of small arms and light weapons organized by the Parliamentarians for Global Action (PGA).
The two day workshop was attended by members of Parliaments from 13... (GunPolicy.org)
Tanzania: Owners Must Surrender Guns for Verification
2 April 2016
Tanzania Daily News
Tanzania Police Force has issued a three month ultimatum to owners of firearms in all regions in the country to surrender their guns to the police force for verification, effective from today.
Addressing journalists in the city yesterday, Training and Operation Commissioner of Police (CP) Nsato Mssanzya urged the wananchi to ensure they are paying for their guns before verifications.
"The exercise is operated in all regions and every regions has its own specific time... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda: Surrender Illegal Guns or We Send You to Heaven
30 March 2016
Monitor (Kampala)
LIRA — Lira Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Mr Emmanuel Mwaka Lutukumoi, has issued a directive for those in possession of illegal firearms to surrender them or face the full force of the law.
The directive follows concerns over a high percentage of firearms that are currently believed to be in the hands of wrong people in the district, once a war-torn area.
In a statement on Monday, Lutukumoi, who also chairs the district security committee, said a major... (GunPolicy.org)
French Navy Seizes Guns, Munitions Heading to Somalia
29 March 2016
Shabelle Media Network (Mogadishu)
French Navy frigate FS Provence has intercepted a large weapons cache from a small boat (dhow) sailing towards Somalia. Several hundred machine guns, anti-tank weapons and AK47 assault riffles were among the weapons seized from the dhow.
The weapons smugglers were spotted heading toward Somalia by Provence's Caïman helicopter whilst it was undertaking routine surveillance in the Northern Indian Ocean.
Provence boarded the vessel and determined that it was not... (GunPolicy.org)
Tanzania: Illegal Gun Shops Trade Firearms for Livestock
29 March 2016
Tanzania Daily News
ARUSHA — In America, proliferation of guns and other firearms is abetted by online sales, but in Arusha the case is different; it was recently discovered that there are some gun shops located deep into the bush, issuing pieces of artilleries at throwaway prices.
Also, one needs not to have money to obtain the same. Guns are exchanged with livestock, including cattle, sheep, goats or farm harvests measured by bags of maize or beans.
The Arusha Regional Commissioner,... (GunPolicy.org)
Despite Firearms Act, Mauritius Has Free Flow of Guns [FR]
27 February 2016
Defimedia (Mauritius)
[Translated summary: In Mauritius, possession and use of firearms are regulated by the Firearms Act. Every year, the owners must renew their licences. Police accurately control a firearm's characteristics and the amount of ammunition the owner can have. Anyone who infringes the Firearms Act can be fined and face prison time.]
Des coups de feu à Goodlands après qu'un véhicule ait percuté un chien. En décembre, deux personnes ont été atteints par balles à... (GunPolicy.org)
United States,Botswana,Algeria,Libya,South Africa,Kenya,Rwanda,Djibouti
7 African Nations More Effective at Gun Control than the US
11 January 2016
Mail & Guardian (Johannesburg)
In a BBC interview last July, US President Barack Obama admitted that failure to pass "common sense gun safety laws" in the US has been the greatest frustration of his presidency.
Since he took office in 2008, there have been repeated mass shootings including the 2011 Tucson Arizona shooting in which Gabrielle Giffords, then a member of Congress and 18 others were shot in a supermarket parking lot. Six people died that day.
Another shooting was at Emanuel African... (GunPolicy.org)
South Sudan Parliament Deliberates on New Gun Control Bill
10 December 2015
Radio Tamazuj (Sudan)
South Sudan's National Legislative Assembly on Wednesday deliberated a firearms control bill presented by the head of parliament's committee of defense and security Hon. Samuel Duar Deng.
While tabling the bill for its second reading, Deng requested the lawmakers to deliberate and pass it into law.
Meanwhile, the Minority Leader Onyoti Adigo described the bill as important but he questioned why cabinet members were not present in the house to discuss the issue.
"Now,... (GunPolicy.org)
Malawi Police Destroy Illegal Firearms
13 June 2014
Star Africa
Malawi Police has destroyed over 3,000 illegal firearms confiscated from people across the country.Inspector General Lot Dzonzi said in Lilongwe during the destruction exercise that Malawi is vulnerable to firearms smuggling because of a number of reasons including its geographical position, lack of scanning machines at its border posts and use of unchartered routes by foreigners.
"This has led to the smugglers bringing in firearms into the country which can lead to... (GunPolicy.org)
Mozambique Police Seize Assault Weapons Being Smuggled to City
22 May 2014
Agência de Informação de Moçambique
MAPUTO — The Mozambican police have seized five AK-47 assault rifles and arrested three men who were trying to sell them in the town of Maxixe, in the southern province of Inhambane.
According to a report in Thursday's issue of the independent daily "O Pais", the guns were found on the back seat of an Isuzu car belonging to a member of the group, who claimed his sole responsibility was to guarantee transport of the weapons.
The men intended to sell the guns to a... (GunPolicy.org)
Congo (DRC),Africa,Sudan,South Sudan,Bulgaria,Iran
Chasing Bullets, Firearms in the Democratic Republic of Congo
13 May 2014
IRIN (UN News)
Virunga National Park — Her job is to track and trace small arms and ammunition in Africa's conflict zones.
Each bullet, assault rifle, mortar, rocket or other item of military hardware she documents forms a piece of a huge jigsaw being created by the UK-based NGO Conflict Armaments Research (CAR) to map the precise flows of conflict weaponry in Africa.
Moving within the ebb and flow of the Democratic Republic of Congo's (DRC) conflict, the investigator, who asked... (GunPolicy.org)
European Union,Kenya,Tanzania,Africa,Congo (DRC),Somalia
African Experts Seek Ways to Curb Proliferation of Small Arms
13 May 2014
Shanghai Daily (China)
NAIROBI - Experts from across Africa will meet in Nairobi on Wednesday to seek ways to help address the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in the continent, ravaged by many conflicts.
A statement from the Nairobi-based Regional Centre for Small Arms (RCSA) said Tuesday the 3rd meeting of the AU-Regions steering committee on small arms and light weapons and disarmament, demobilization and reintegration will seek ways of combating cross border flows illicit... (GunPolicy.org)
Tanzania Police Seize Guns in Operation to Recover Illegal Firearms
9 May 2014
Tanzania Daily News
The influx of illegal firearms in Mara Region is alarming and the police force is now planning a house to house operation aimed at recovering all guns from hands of criminals.
A total of seven illegal firearms most of them submachine guns (SMG) and more than 420 bullets have been seized by the police in Mara Region since the beginning of this year.
"Since January to April 30 this year we have impounded seven guns and four of them are SMGs, two pistols and a shotgun,"... (GunPolicy.org)
Thirteen Face Court Over Illegal Guns in Rwanda
4 May 2014
New Times (Rwanda)
Police in Musanze District have handed thirteen people over to the prosecution to face charges of illegal possession of firearms and plans to cause insecurity in the country.
Superintendent Emmanuel Hitayezu, the Northern Province's Regional Police Spokesperson said the suspects (names withheld) were arrested separately early last month.
He said that the police seized 8 submachine guns (SMG) which they handed to prosecution on Friday.
The suspects, all males, include... (GunPolicy.org)
Zambian Man Injures Daughter, Nephew in Accidental Shooting
1 May 2014
UK Zambians
A trigger happy man on Sunday caused panic at a funeral house when a firearm he had put in his pocket after firing casually in the air accidentally went off, shooting and wounding his 14-year-old daughter and nephew in Mumbwa.
The man of Lusaka's Kanyama township, identified as Allan Ngwenya, 52, is alleged to have fired in the air at the funeral house before putting his pistol, an Austria, serial number VAK 951, which had eight rounds of ammunition in his pocket... (GunPolicy.org)
70 Percent of Kenya Govt Firearms Marked
29 April 2014
Capital FM (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — Interior Principal Secretary Mutea Iringo says 70 percent of all firearms owned by the State have been marked as the government takes an inventory of all issued weapons.
The process was done after acquisition of eight firearm marking machines from the National Focal Point on Small Arms and Light Weapons.
Iringo says the exercise is meant to enhance accountability in the management of the national firearms stock pile for easy identification of the origin of... (GunPolicy.org)
Zimbabwe,South Africa,Swaziland
Zimbabwe Homicide Rate Among the Lowest in the World
22 April 2014
Herald (Zimbabwe)
Zimbabwe's homicide rate is among the lowest globally making it one of the world's most peaceful and safest places to live in.
Even though Zimbabwe's figures were not captured in a new study by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) on global homicide rates, police spokesperson Chief Superintendent Paul Nyathi, told The Herald they recorded between 30 and 45 murders per month countrywide.
This gives an average of 420 murder cases per annum, which roughly... (GunPolicy.org)
South Sudan's Police Seized 6,000 Firearms in 2014
19 April 2014
Radio Tamazuj (Sudan)
South Sudan's Minister of Interior Gen. Aleu Ayieny Aleu announced on Friday that the police captured 6,000 arms in searches in Juba since last month, mostly from the hands of 'the youth.'
On Friday the interior minister noted at a press conference that people were using the arms mostly for killing and robberies: "The thieves who are killing and attacking people in Juba are mostly the youth, and they have arms and I have collected not less than 6,000 arms in... (GunPolicy.org)
South Africa,China,Russia,United States,Mozambique
South African Gun Culture Shown in Art
11 April 2014
Mail & Guardian (Johannesburg)
Best known as the director of the 2008 South African crime film Jerusalema and for his music video work with such top stars as Tony Braxton and Michael Jackson, Ralph Ziman's new art installation Ghosts is a powerful comment on the global arms trade and the worship of guns in South African society.
The work includes an extraordinary series of photographs showing men dressed in Day-Glo outfits toting wire-and-bead AK-47s, which are exhibited alongside the imitation... (GunPolicy.org)
Haiti,Americas,Asia,Africa,Europe,South Sudan,Liberia,Oceania
Over 400,000 People Murdered Worldwide in 2012, 40 Percent Caused by Guns
10 April 2014
UN Dispatch (New York)
Almost half a million people across the world lost their lives in 2012 as a result of intentional homicide, with the highest murder rates logged in the Americas and Africa, and the lowest in Europe, Asia and Oceania, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) reports.
"Too many lives are being tragically cut short, too many families and communities left shattered. There is an urgent need to understand how violent crime is plaguing countries around the world,... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun-Related Homicides Rising in Uganda - Report
9 April 2014
Observer (Kampala)
The number of cases of murder by shooting in Uganda rose by 14 per cent last year, the annual police report has shown.
The 2013 Crime, Traffic and Road Safety report, which was released in Kampala on Monday, shows that the police investigated 131 cases of gun-shot murder, compared to 115 the year before. Some 192 people were shot dead last year, the report said. Of these, 163 were men, 20 were women, six were boys and three were girls.
Releasing the report, Inspector... (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)
South Sudan Authorities Find Thousands of Guns in Search of Houses
24 March 2014
Sudan Tribune (France)
JUBA — Security officials in South Sudan on Sunday conducted house-to-house searches for weapons in operation aimed at obtaining illegal arms among residents on the capital, Juba.
The early morning swoop, which took many unaware, also saw several checkpoints created on roads within Juba, limiting up and down movements.
Over the last few weeks, however, Juba has experienced less shootings compared to the early days of the mid-December conflict and the weeks that... (GunPolicy.org)
Africa,North Africa,Russia,Syria,Mali,Qatar,Turkey,Libya,Egypt,Chad,Somalia,Nigeria,Niger
Libya's Guns Free-For-All Fuels Region's Turmoil
22 March 2014
St Louis Post-Dispatch (Missouri)
TRIPOLI — At the heart of the Libyan capital, the open-air Fish Market was once a place where residents went to buy everything from meat and seafood to clothes and pets. Now it's Tripoli's biggest arms market, with tables displaying pistols and assault rifles. Ask a vendor, and he can pull out bigger machine guns to sell for thousands of dollars.
Libya, where hundreds of militias hold sway and the central government is virtually powerless, is awash in millions of... (GunPolicy.org)
Firearms Licensing Shut Down Temporarily in Kenya, Law Reforms Planned
21 March 2014
Standard (Nairobi)
NAIROBI, Kenya - The Chief Firearms Licensing office in Nairobi has been closed on a temporary basis.
Police seconded to the bureau were told to take leave until further notice.
The move came even as Inspector General of Police David Kimaiyo and his deputy Grace Kaindi named Boniface Maingi as the new head of firearms licensing section.
The Chief Firearms Licensing officer Francis Wanjohi was moved to police headquarters amid protest from firearms dealers.
Mr... (GunPolicy.org)
United Kingdom,United States,Cambodia,Liberia,Mexico,Mozambique
Melding Guns Into Weapons of Mass Attraction – Global Picture Gallery
6 March 2014
Guardian (UK)
Art of War - Picture gallery captions:
Non-Violence, or the Knotted Gun, by Carl Fredrik Reuterswärd. The bronze replica of a 45-calibre revolver, a gift from Luxembourg to the United Nations, was sculpted in memory of the Swedish artist's longtime friend John Lennon. Though not created from recycled munitions, the sculpture has been cited as one of the inspirations behind the arms-to-art movement.
Sculptor Gonçalo Mabunda recycles weapons recovered from... (GunPolicy.org)
Two Students Arrested in Kenya After Handgun Found in Schoolbag
1 March 2014
Standard (Nairobi)
Kajiado, Kenya - Police are holding two school boys after a gun was allegedly recovered inside a schoolbag belonging to one of the boys.
The two Form Four students at Ololua Secondary School were arrested on Friday by police after a teacher discovered the firearm inside the student's school bag.
According to Ngong Police boss Farah Mohamed, one of the boys arrived at the school late and was questioned by his teacher.
The teacher who realised the student was a... (GunPolicy.org)
Yes, It's This Easy to Buy a Firearm in Kenya Slums
14 February 2014
Standard (Nairobi)
The increasing rate of crime in the country has been blamed on the high number of unlicenced guns held by civilians. Cases of robberies, carjackings and thefts in a number of towns are a common feature in the news. Most of the weapons used to commit these crimes are small arms, which are easy to buy and stash away from public glare and knowledge of the authorities. But does the government know just how easy — but dangerous — it is to acquire a gun? In the slums of... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenyan Cop Shot, Gun Stolen After Weapon Seized From Gang
10 February 2014
Shabelle Media Network (Mogadishu)
A traffic police officer was Monday morning shot and wounded in the head before he was robbed of his AK-47 rifle by gunmen on a motorbike in Kombani, Kwale County.
Police suspect the attackers were followers of Somalia's Al-Shabaab gang. Another female officer was slightly injured after she was wrestled by the gunmen who escaped after the incident along the Lunga Lunga highway.
Area police boss Richard Muguai said police have launched investigation and a hunt to... (GunPolicy.org)
Somali Man Arrested for Smuggling Illegal Handguns in Kenya
31 January 2014
Nairobian (Kenya)
A man was arrested in Lunga Lunga for smuggling illegal weapons.
Abdillahi Edin Adano was seized with two pistols and 20 rounds of ammunition that he intended to sell.
Police laid a trap after getting tips from the public that the suspect had landed in Eastleigh with the cache. The seized man allegedly planned to sell the guns in Lunga Lunga.
Last year, six firearms and several rounds of ammunitions were recovered from the same slums where four suspects were... (GunPolicy.org)
Tanzania's New, Tough Firearm Sale, Possession Laws
20 January 2014
Tanzania Daily News
Disturbed by a recent spate of indiscriminate killings using legally owned firearms, the government will soon introduce a new legislation to strictly regulate and control importation, sales and ownership of guns.
Although it is not yet established whether the new Act will phase out the existing Arms and Ammunition Act of 2007, the legislation will address the shortcomings in the current Act used by gun owners to use them in criminal acts, kill themselves and innocent... (GunPolicy.org)
Fight Over Girlfriend in Zimbabwe Ends in Fatal Shooting
11 January 2014
Herald (Zimbabwe)
A 33-year-old security guard stationed at Mavhudzi High School in Nyazura ran amok on Wednesday night, fatally shooting his workmate for allegedly having an affair with his girlfriend.
The guard, identified as Joseph Zvikumva, also accidentally shot and seriously injured a female worker at the school.
Zvikumva fled the scene after committing the offence and police have since launched a manhunt for him.
He is wanted for murder and attempted murder.
Police... (GunPolicy.org)
Opinion: Zimbabwe Could Benefit From Stricter Firearm Regulation
10 January 2014
Herald (Zimbabwe), Opinion
You definitely know something is wrong when a woman is robbed of a mango she is eating at gunpoint.
This is the ridiculous incident that occurred recently along the Masvingo-Beitbridge Highway.
It could be normal though, but only in a society where everyone owns a gun. But Zimbabwe has one of the most functional firearms regulation policies in the world.
The regulation of guns in the country is typically categorised as "restrictive". It is a policy which many... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Officials Admit Civilians 'Not Vetted Before Getting Guns'
9 January 2014
Standard (Nairobi)
The Chief Firearms Licensing Officer in the police force, Francis Mwangi Wanjohi has revealed there is no thorough vetting done before guns are issued to civilians.
Wanjohi blamed the situation on the coming in of the new Constitution and admitted a number of applicants had been given licences to own guns before being vetted as required by law. He said unlike in the past when applicants used to be vetted through a rigorous process, the situation changed with the... (GunPolicy.org)
Zimbabwe Police Chief Arrested for Illegal Gun Possession
3 January 2014
Herald (Zimbabwe)
A senior police officer based in Beitbridge has been arrested at a roadblock along the Masvingo-Beitbridge highway after he was allegedly found in possession of an unlicenced firearm and ammunition stashed in his car.
Inspector Abel Mudzonga (41) who is the officer-in-charge in the Information Communication Technology section at Beitbridge district police headquarters has since appeared before a Mwenezi magistrate's court facing charges of illegal possession of an... (GunPolicy.org)
Tanzania,Congo (DRC),Somalia,Mozambique,Kenya
Assault Weapons From Mozambique Used by Tanzanian Poachers
30 December 2013
Independent (UK)
The wildest sound on the savannah is not the lion's roar, but the elephant's trumpet. When he senses a lurking poacher, the elephant screams, loud and shrill, to alert the herd and scare his enemy.
The poacher, standing only a few feet away takes aim and fires. The elephant screams again, before he collapses in a heap. One bullet will rarely kill an adult elephant, and it takes many minutes before the life drains away.
Military weapons such as AK-47s are increasingly... (GunPolicy.org)
Tanzania Officials Concerned Over Increasing Civilian 'Misuse' of Guns
18 December 2013
Tanzania Daily News
President Jakaya Kikwete on Tuesday condemned the everincreasing incidents of misuse of firearms and warned members of the public against illegitimately taking the law in their hands.
The president expressed his disgust at the spate of mob justice and firearm misuse in his message to the Mwanza Regional Commissioner (RC), Eng. Evarist Ndikilo, following the deaths of two people as a result of a land conflict at Kanyama Village in Kisesa Division, Magu District on... (GunPolicy.org)
Goat Market in Kenya Becomes 'Supermarket' of Illegal Guns
8 December 2013
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
On November 14, officers from the Special Crimes Prevention Unit (SPRU), acting on a tip-off, trailed a white saloon car on suspicion that its occupants were planning to rob a bank.
After a dramatic chase, the officers challenged its occupants to stop at Kiamaiko.
The officers ransacked the car and found an arsenal of weapons among them AK-47s, pistols, ammunition, police uniform and walkie-talkies. One of the four suspects arrested was a former administration police... (GunPolicy.org)
South Sudan Authorities Trained to Mark, Trace Guns
27 November 2013
Sudan Tribune (France)
JUBA — The United Nations Mission in South Sudan, through it disarmament, demobilization and reintegration work is providing intensive training to the South Sudan security services in order to create a national Bureau for Community Security and Small Arms Control.
A composite group from South Sudan's army (SPLA), the South Sudanese Police Service, National Security, Wildlife and Prison Services have participated in an intensive 12-day training funded by the UNMISS... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Targets Rising Gun Crime Involving Security Forces
26 November 2013
Sabahi (Washington DC)
NAIROBI — Embarrassed by a slew of recent high-profile crimes involving Kenyan security forces, the government is mulling ways to better monitor current and former members of the police and military to combat this growing and alarming trend.
"The police will not allow these waves of crime to continue," Nairobi County Police Chief Benson Kibue told Sabahi. "We will continue to fight against organised crime by ex-policemen and military officers without fear or favour,... (GunPolicy.org)
Zimbabwe Authorities Express Concern Over Armed Robberies, Homicides
15 November 2013
Herald (Zimbabwe)
Fifty-one people were killed in Harare during the last 10 months with most of the cases being victims of domestic violence and armed robberies. According to police statistics, 50 people were murdered in the city during the same period last year. Harare provincial police spokesperson Inspector Tadius Chibanda yesterday said some people were killed by robbers after they tried to resist.
"Most of the cases were also over domestic disputes while others were drivers of... (GunPolicy.org)
Second Disarmament Campaign Begins in Burundi (Fr)
11 November 2013
Ici Lome (Togo)
[Translated summary: Burundi officials have begun a second voluntary national disarmament campaign to reduce the number of illegal firearms held by citizens. Authorities also hope that the move will reduce the crime rate, with weapons entering the country through its porous borders. The first disarmament campaign in 2009 resulted in the collection of thousands of weapons.]
Burundi - Le chef de l'Etat burundais Pierre Nkurunziza a procédé ce lundi au lancement de la... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Speak to Malawi Politician Over Illegal Guns
6 November 2013
Nyasa Times
Deputy speaker of Parliament James Chingola was Wednesday morning interrogated by the Malawi Police over the illegal possession of firearms which were found at one of his offices.
Lilongwe police spokesperson Ramsey Mushane says this followed the search which the police arrived at his offices after a tip off.
"We discovered in a same room two AK 47 rifles and two identified guns plus live ammunition," he said.
Mushane says Chingola will soon be charged with illegal... (GunPolicy.org)
South Sudan,Somalia,Burundi,Liberia,Ghana,United States,Europe,Zimbabwe,Uganda,Tanzania,Sudan,Nigeria,Namibia,Kenya,Ethiopia,Africa
How Disarmament in Africa Got More Complicated
5 November 2013
IPI Global Observatory
Africa is ground zero in the international debate on controlling the small arms and light weapons trade. For more than a decade, diplomatic activity to contain arms and ammunition transfers has been animated by a concern with instability and contagion generated by the continent's many wars. Leading think tanks, research groups, and advocacy organizations have repeatedly drawn attention to the way the burden of armed violence in Africa is a product of low-tech assault... (GunPolicy.org)
Some Kenyan Preachers Call for Govt to Issue Them With Guns
30 October 2013
Star (Kenya)
Kenyans [are] divided over calls by Mombasa preachers to be issued with guns to guard themselves and their flock. Calls by pastors in Mombasa to have them armed with AK47 rifles continue to attract mixed reactions across the country.
Sheikh Juma Ngao, who is the Kenya Muslim National Advisory Council chairman, said it is a good idea to arm clerics. He however said not all clerics should be armed as some clerics are criminals hiding behind religion.
"Not all clerics... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda,Somalia,Colombia,Kenya,United States
Interpol Chief Suggests Armed Citizenry to Counter Terrorism
21 October 2013
ABC News (USA)
Interpol Secretary General Ronald Noble said today the U.S. and the rest of the democratic world is at a security crossroads in the wake of last month's deadly al-Shabab attack at a shopping mall in Nairobi, Kenya – and suggested an answer could be in arming civilians.
In an exclusive interview with ABC News, Noble said there are really only two choices for protecting open societies from attacks like the one on Westgate mall where so-called "soft targets" are hit:... (GunPolicy.org)
Peace Activists Seek to Curb Proliferation of Illicit Firearms in Kenya
19 October 2013
Coast Week (Kenya)
NAKURU, Kenya - Recurrent attacks in some parts of Kenya especially in the northern and coastal regions have caused major security shake-ups in the East African nation with the government reinforcing security in the affected areas.
During the attacks, people have died, livestock - which to some is the main source of livelihood, have been killed or stolen and property worth of millions of shillings lost.
Due to fear, some members of the local communities have moved... (GunPolicy.org)
Drug Abuse, Illicit Guns Threaten Security, Youths in Kenya
17 October 2013
Xinhua
KITALE, Kenya - Kenya has deployed three special security units to crackdown on increased use of drugs and illicit guns threatening security and spoiling unemployed youths in counties in northwest Kenya.
The move followed concerns from tribal leaders over the widespread drug abuse and existence of illegal guns fueling crime and deteriorating security.
Trans-Nzoia County Police Commander Lillian Okembo said on Wednesday that security forces have been posted to the... (GunPolicy.org)
Zimbabwe Air Force Official Arrested Over Unintentional Shooting
15 October 2013
Herald (Zimbabwe)
An Air Force of Zimbabwe official who accidentally shot a 14-year-old boy after trying to clear a loaded gun he had seized from a Chitungwiza businessman was yesterday remanded in custody.
The wounded boy was shot on the right pelvis with the bullet protruding at the right buttock. He is still admitted to Chitungwiza Central Hospital.
Gerald Gurwe (23), stationed at Manyame Air Base allegedly received information that the businessman, Mr Trust Jasi had taken his uncle... (GunPolicy.org)
Creating a Gun-Safe Village in Somalia
14 October 2013
Alert Net / Thompson Reuters, Media release
"Thanks for taking photos in my shop as an example to tell others that we are living in danger," says Yasin Asyayr Gurase.
In his small store in Kalabyr, a village of about 1,500 people 100 kilometres south of Garowe in the Puntland State of Somalia, guns are stacked against shelves filled with shirts and shoes, and AK-47s rest against food products.
These weapons are not for sale. Rather, after a number of recent accidents in the village, they are being left in shops... (GunPolicy.org)
Worker Shocked After Finding Three Assault Weapons at Kenya Golf Club
9 October 2013
Standard (Nairobi)
NAIROBI, Kenya - A worker was shocked when he discovered three AK 47 rifles and more than 80 bullets hidden in a bush near a popular golf club in Nairobi's Karen area.
The rifles with 87 bullets were discovered on Tuesday evening by a worker at the golf club hidden in the bush while covered with clothes and a bag.
Police say they are yet to know the owners of the luggage believed to have hidden them there after using them in unknown incident.
Langata head of CID... (GunPolicy.org)
South African Fined for Smuggling Firearm to Zimbabwe
7 October 2013
Herald (Zimbabwe)
A 29-year-old South African was last week fined US$400 for smuggling a CZ Pistol loaded with 15 rounds into the country through Beitbridge border post. Bucks Ridwan Anwar of 5 Middleburg, Bonker Street, South Africa, employed by FTS Logistics as a transport manager, was convicted on his own plea of guilty when he appeared before the border town's magistrate Mr Innocent Bepura charged with smuggling.
In the event that Anwar fails to pay the fine he risks imprisonment... (GunPolicy.org)
One Dead, Six Injured in Uganda Bar Shooting
7 October 2013
New Vision (Kampala)
One person was shot dead and six others injured and admitted in critical condition at Mulago national referral hospital when an unidentified man opened fire following a disagreement with his girlfriend in a city pub on Sunday.
The 5.00am incident, the Police said, happened at Top pub a popular hangout on William street- the second such incident at the place in four years.
Four people are so far in police custody over the incident. The man armed with a pistol is said... (GunPolicy.org)
Mozambique Cops Jailed for Renting Out Guns to Criminals
2 October 2013
Agência de Informação de Moçambique
MAPUTO — The Sofala Provincial Court in central Mozambique on Monday sentenced two policemen to 12 year jail terms for hiring out police firearms to criminals.
The two policemen were Celestino Cacaue and Lazaro Saene. The latter will not be serving his jail sentence because he was shot dead last Thursday while trying to escape from Beira central prison.
According to a report in Wednesday's issue of the Maputo daily 'Noticias', the two police were in the dock... (GunPolicy.org)
Opinion: Rising Gun Ownership Rates in Tanzania a Real Issue
29 September 2013
Tanzania Daily News, Opinion
Never in the history of this country has there been a need to learn to say SORRY even when you are wrong, than these times where buying and owning a gun is as easy as buying a mobile phone, it brings cold chills sprinting down my spine.
It is very common today to see very young people seated in a public place with two, three smart phones on the table and Glock on the side.
Today owning a gun is as fashionable among Tanzanian youths as knowing Diamond's latest song,... (GunPolicy.org)
Over 80,000 Guns Collected in Burundi Disarmament Campaign [FR]
25 September 2013
Afriquinfos / Xinhua
[Translated summary: Over 80,000 small arms and light weapons have been seized from citizens in Burundi during a disarmament campaign. Officials have called on women leaders to be involved in the efforts, as victims of many of the crimes the disarmament is trying to prevent.]
BUJUMBURA - Plus de 80.000 armes légères et de petit calibre (ALPC) de différentes sortes ont été retirées de la population à la veille de la deuxième phase du désarmement civil, prévu... (GunPolicy.org)
Tanzania Authorities Seize 47 Guns in Illegal Immigrant Operation
20 September 2013
Tanzania Daily News
47 guns, 600 rounds of ammunition impounded
3,400 cattle abandoned
OPERATION "Kimbunga" (whirlwind) does not only target illegal immigrants but also criminals who have been vandalizing public and private property in Kagera, Kigoma and Geita regions, the government explained .
The operation's Head of Communications, Ms Zamaradi Kawawa, said in a statement that the operation has netted suspected armed bandits, poachers as well as weapons such as hand grenades, guns and... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenyan Police Start Illegal Gun Recovery Campaign in Refugee Camp
13 September 2013
Xinhua
GARISSA, Kenya - Kenyan authorities have started up recovery of illegal small arms and light weapons which have been fuelling the insecurity in northern Kenya, with the latest seizure of a gun and 48 bullets in Dadaab refugee camp on Thursday.
Regional Criminal Investigations (CID) Commander Musa Yego said the weapons were found in the world's largest refugee settlement in a search conducted by local police. A suspect was arrested in the process.
"We will not relent... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Police Recover Over 100 Guns in Disarmament Campaign
9 September 2013
New Vision (Kampala)
At least 124 guns have been recovered from the districts of Napak, Amudat, Nakapiripirit, Moroto as well as parts of Teso, Bugisu and Sebei.
Also recovered were 1,600 bullets and military gear.
UPDF 3rd Division spokesperson Lt. Jimmy Omara said they were recovering fewer guns than in the past when over 400 guns would be recovered within a month in just four districts. He said there had been tremendous improvement in security, adding that the rampant killings that... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Police Out to Stop Guns From Uganda
4 September 2013
Star (Kenya)
Police in Bungoma have moved to curb the influx of illegal firearms from the neigbouring Uganda. Speaking to the Star yesterday, county commissioner Mohamed Maalim said the firearms from the Uganda are the main cause of insecurity in the [county].
"We have instituted measures that will ensure thorough checks at our border points of Malaba and Lwakhakha to ensure that firearms are not sneaked from Uganda,"he said.
Guns are easily available in Uganda with security... (GunPolicy.org)
South African Group to Mark, Record Weapons in South Sudan
26 August 2013
Bor Globe (USA)
The United Nations (UN) has enlisted the services of a South African partnership to establish a weapons marking and identification system in South Sudan.
The marking and identification process is unique in Africa and was designed and developed in South Africa by a partnership of FACTT, a software development company, and Traceability Solutions, a hardware development and manufacturing organisation.
"If ever there was a baptism by fire for our product, this is it,"... (GunPolicy.org)
Zimbabwe Businessman Shoots, Kills Girlfriend and Self
21 August 2013
Herald (Zimbabwe)
Harare businessman Irvine Mereki shot dead his long-time girlfriend before turning the gun on himself on Monday night at the height of a domestic dispute at a house in Avondale. Mereki (32) and Clariss Chopamba, whose age was not given, were found dead by a maid yesterday morning when she called for work. Police spokesperson Superintendent Blessmore Chishaka confirmed the incident that occurred at a house along Oxford Road in Avondale.
"We confirm the death of the two... (GunPolicy.org)
Zambia Cop Kills Lover, Commits Suicide with Duty Weapon
17 August 2013
Times of Zambia
A Livingstone police officer has shot his girlfriend dead before turning the firearm on himself, Southern Province Police chief Charity Katanga has said.
Pukutani Banda, 54, is alleged to have quarrelled with his girlfriend before the shooting occurred.
Mr Banda of Muzukung'ombe Police Camp, who was based at Livingstone Central Police, shot himself dead with a revolver around 11:50 hours yesterday.
This was after killing his girlfriend, identified as Margaret... (GunPolicy.org)
South Sudan Bans Possession of Guns by 'Unauthorized Personnel'
17 August 2013
Sudan Tribune (France)
JUBA — South Sudan's interior ministry has issued an order banning unauthorized personnel from carrying any type of weapon and canceling licenses not bearing the signature of the interior minister.
"From now onward, guns and all other types of weapons owned by police personnel and other organized forces will have to be kept in stores. All the police personnel on duty will no longer be able to carry their personal weapons in the public", Aleu Ayieny Aleu, the new... (GunPolicy.org)
'Guns and Roses' in Tanzania as Gun Homicide Rate Rises
11 August 2013
Tanzania Daily News
A few metres down the lane from the legendary 'Clock Tower' roundabout, along Sokoine Road, there is a special store which stocks arms and ammunition. The shop mostly serves as a reminder or monument indicating that people here are free to buy and own fire arms like pistols and guns, as long as their acquisitions are done in accordance with the law .
During the boom of Tanzanite mining in the 90s, many people who were in one way or another involved with Mirerani Hills,... (GunPolicy.org)
Tanzania Authorities Fighting Against Illegal Crime Guns
3 August 2013
Tanzania Daily News
A high percentage of firearms in the country are currently in the hands of wrong people and President Jakaya Kikwete has issued a directive for culprits to surrender weapons immediately or face the full force of the law.
Addressing residents in Biharamulo District, Mr Kikwete issued a two week ultimatum for culprits to comply, warning that a major operation is underway to recover these weapons.
"We cannot allow Tanzanians to be terrorised by a few criminals," warned... (GunPolicy.org)
Thousands of Guns Create Insecurity, Kenyan MPs Support Disarmament
23 July 2013
Star (Kenya)
MPs from Pokot and Turkana counties want communities in the region to surrender illegal arms in order to help end insecurity in the region.
The legislators say the more than 50,000 small arms held by herders in the region have been a major source of insecurity and killings of innocent people during cattle rustling attacks, a practice which the 14 MPs have resolved to eradicate. They made the declaration at a meeting in Eldoret yesterday.
"We are now united as leaders... (GunPolicy.org)
Syria,Sudan,South Africa,Kenya
South Africa: Gun Dealer Sold Arms to Conflict Zones
20 July 2013
Independent/IOL Daily News (South Africa) / Saturday Star
JOHANNESBURG - A director of a Joburg gun shop was allegedly involved in importing military weapons for "special forces" and then selling them to countries in conflict.
This emerged in a state affidavit placed before the Lenasia Magistrate's Court on Friday.
In the bail application of Gareth De Nysschen, a director at Dave Sheer Guns, the State indicated that the business had been investigated by military intelligence for two years.
De Nysschen was arrested last week... (GunPolicy.org)
Read More: Independent/IOL Daily News (South Africa) / Saturday Star
Kenyans Refuse to Surrender Guns in Amnesty Campaign
4 July 2013
Star (Kenya)
Tana Delta residents are yet to surrender illegal firearms since the government issued an amnesty last year. Authorities said no one has voluntarily surrendered any weapon including those stolen from police officers killed in Kilelengwani.
Area Deputy County Commissioner Mike Kimoko said they have begun negotiations with the locals to enlighten them on the danger of having the firearms in wrong hands.
Kimoko said in a telephone interview that they were optimistic of... (GunPolicy.org)
South Sudan: Challenge of Disarming a Nation
4 July 2013
Bor Globe (USA)
Unrest and suspicion of police means few are willing to give up their share of the 3m small arms and light weapons in circulation
Ending insecurity and extending the new government's writ across South Sudan, a country roughly the size of France, is one of the main challenges facing its struggling leadership. But the prevalence of large numbers of mostly unregulated small arms and light weapons – an estimated 3m are in circulation – makes this daunting task all the... (GunPolicy.org)
Europe,Asia,Americas,Africa,Colombia,Somalia,Yemen,Oceania
Red Cross, World Medics Launch 4-Year War on Armed Violence
26 June 2013
International Committee of the Red Cross (Geneva), Media release
Geneva – The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the World Medical Association (WMA) signed a memorandum of understanding in Geneva today, in which the two organizations agree to join forces in a worldwide effort to combat violence against patients and health-care workers.
The memorandum of understanding brings the WMA on board as a partner in the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement's "Heath Care in Danger" project, a four-year... (GunPolicy.org)
Read More: International Committee of the Red Cross (Geneva)
Kenya Considers New Gun Control Measures After Fatal Crime Shootout
21 June 2013
Global Times (China)
Kenyan police on Thursday night killed 9 gangsters and recovered five firearms, three vehicles and mobile phones after a fierce shootout at residential estate in Nairobi.
Regional police commander Benson Kibui said they had received a tip off from members of the public and dispatched police officers from the Special Crime Prevention Unit who trailed the gangsters and eventually shot them dead at Mwiki estate.
"We killed nine robbers on Thursday evening and recovered... (GunPolicy.org)
Man Jailed for Possessing Gun Without Licence in Malawi
19 June 2013
Malawi News Agency (Lilongwe)
Lilongwe — Mkukula First Grade Magistrate court on Monday sentenced Chimwanza Chikhosi to nine months imprisonment with hard labour for being found in possession of a fire arm without license which is contrary to section 1 (a) of Fire Arms Act.
Kanengo police Deputy Public Relations Officer, Salome Chibwana told Malawi News Agency that police received a tip from the general public that Chikhosi was possessing a fire arm without a license which is also giving pressure... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Police say Crime Guns from Uganda
13 June 2013
Star (Kenya)
KITALE - Kitale deputy police boss Duncan Nguthu has said two guns and 150 rounds of ammunition recovered from three criminal suspects killed at Kiminini recently came from Uganda.
Addressing mourners at Kamukuywa during the burial ceremony of a security officer, Nguthu said the equipment had not been used.
Last week, three suspected criminals were lynched and their bodies burnt beyond recognition by the public. Nguthu asked leaders and chiefs to revive community... (GunPolicy.org)
Sudan Authorities Recover 500 Guns in Disarmament Campaign
12 June 2013
Sudan Tribune (France)
JUBA — Over 500 illegal firearms have been collected over the last week from civilians in Unity state's Koch, Rubkotna and Mayom counties, according to the military.
The commander of the fourth division of South Sudan's army - the SPLA - Maj Gen James Koang Chuol, told Sudan Tribune on Wednesday that disarmament exercise was ordered by governor, Taban Deng Gai, to address the deteriorating security situation in the three counties.
Over 22 people were killed in... (GunPolicy.org)
40 Guns Still Missing After Mass Killings in Kenya
30 May 2013
Standard (Nairobi)
KENYA - Six months after the massacre of 42 policemen in Samburu in an ambush by cattle rustlers, security agents are yet to recover 40 firearms stolen from the deceased.
Not a single firearm has been surrendered following an amnesty issued by Inspector General of Police David Kimaiyo months ago to residents in possession of illegal weapons and those stolen during the ambush.
The Standard has established that bandits are roaming the area freely and eight cattle... (GunPolicy.org)
Over 80 Guns Confiscated in Sudanese Disarmament Campaign
30 May 2013
Sudan Tribune (France)
BOR — The commissioner of South Sudan's police in Jonglei state has reported 85 AK47 rifles, 1 PKM machine guns and a number of pistols have been confiscated from civilians in a disarmament clampdown in Bor town on May 29.
"We targeted some residential houses in Bor, we searched for guns only but the our security forces had no problems with the people living here", General Majok Adol said.
Sources said the disarmament-targeted houses of the individuals who were... (GunPolicy.org)
Zambia Minister Asks Police to Revive Gun Amnesty to Reduce Crime
12 May 2013
Times of Zambia
Home Affairs Minister Edgar Lungu has urged the Zambia Police Service to revive the gun amnesty and buy-back schemes to reduce the number of illicit firearms in Zambia.
Mr Lungu said the police should seriously look into the increased misuse of firearms that were mostly smuggled into Zambia.
He said this when he officiated at the opening of Kanele Shopping Mall and Kanele Enterprise yesterday.
"The regulations of firearms dealing are continuously being stiffened both... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Authorities Plan Crackdown on Illegal Guns
10 May 2013
Star (Kenya)
Western PC James Serian has said the regional security team is profiling people with illegal arms. "There are illegal firearms in Western particularly in Mt Elgon, Malaba, Teso, Busia, along the Kenya and even Kakamega. Currently we are profiling all persons we suspect have fire arms," said Serian.
He said the provincial security team will start an operation to recover all guns in wrong hands in the area. Serian said the porous Kenya-Uganda border could be blamed for... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Police Deny Allegations Guns Being Issued to Unlicensed People
9 May 2013
Star (Kenya)
MOMBASA - An assistant police commissioner has denied claims that firearms are being issue to unvetted people. Central Firearms Bureau chief licensing officer David Baya said firearms are only issued to civilians after going through a series of thorough interrogations by security officers at different levels.
A civilian who owned a licensed gun told media houses that there is a broker in Mombasa behind the deals. He said the broker cuts deals between senior security... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenyans Worried Over Use of Pistols, Homemade Guns as Crimes Rise
17 April 2013
Capital FM (Nairobi)
NAIROBI, Kenya – A survey conducted recently has revealed an alarming level of armed robberies and other violent crimes in Nairobi.
According to the study by Security Research and Information Centre, 41 percent of crimes reported are violent robberies and residents in all parts of the city are prone to such attacks.
Inspector General David Kimaiyo welcomed the Nairobi Regional Annual Crime Observatory Report, saying it will help in facilitating stakeholders to... (GunPolicy.org)
Rwanda Calls for Firearms Marking to Fight Trafficking
16 April 2013
New Times (Rwanda)
The Minister of Internal Security and Chairman of the Regional Centre on Small Arms, Sheikh Musa Fazil Harerimana, has called for firearms to be marked and recorded as means of fighting illicit arms trafficking.
Harerimana made the remarks as he opened a two-day trans-regional seminar on arms making guidelines for the Economic Community of Central Africa States (Eccas) in Kigali. The meeting, according to the minister, is an opportunity to harmonise efforts and share... (GunPolicy.org)
At Least 19 Die in Bomb, Gun Attack on Somali Courthouse
15 April 2013
RIA Novosti (Russia)
MOSCOW - Bomb and gun attacks have left at least 19 people dead in Somali capital Mogadishu, media reported.
A total of 16 people, including nine assailants, are thought to have been killed after gunmen attacked the city's key court buildings. A car bomb later killed three people, including one attacker, as it went off on the road to the airport, the BBC reported.
Islamist militant group al-Shabab, linked to al-Qaeda, claimed responsibility for the attacks. Al-Shabab... (GunPolicy.org)
South Africa,Haiti,South Sudan,Sierra Leone,Liberia,Europe,Asia,Americas,Africa,Oceania,Southern Africa,Central America,East Asia,Southern Europe,Western Europe,North Africa,East Africa,South Asia,South America
Some 437,000 People Murdered Worldwide in 2012 - UNODC Study
10 April 2013
United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Media release
VIENNA - Almost half a million people (437,000) across the world lost their lives in 2012 as a result of intentional homicide, according to a new study by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
Launching the Global Study on Homicide 2013 in London today, Jean-Luc Lemahieu, Director for Policy Analysis and Public Affairs, said: "Too many lives are being tragically cut short, too many families and communities left shattered. There is an urgent need to... (GunPolicy.org)
Niger,Algeria,Tunisia,Somalia,Chad,Palestine,Mali,Liberia,Egypt
Egypt Major Recipient of Illicit Libyan Weapons: UN Report
10 April 2013
Daily News (Egypt)
The United Nations published a report on Tuesday which concludes that weapons used during the Libyan civil war against Muammar Gaddafi are being funnelled at an alarming rate to other countries in the region.
The report said these weapons have been found to be used in the recent war in Mali, the West Bank in Palestine and the ongoing Syrian civil war, with Egypt and the Sahel region receiving the most significant amounts. The report said these weapons are fuelling... (GunPolicy.org)
Tanzania Police Seize Assault Weapon, Pistols
10 April 2013
Citizen (Dar es Salaam)
DAR ES SALAAM - Police in the city have recovered three guns and 33 bullets from different locations. The weapons were reportedly to be used by suspected bandits in commiting robberies.
The firearms were recovered in a special round up carried out by police after receiving intelligence information from citizens, according to Dar es Salaam Special Zone Police Commander, Mr Suleiman Kova.
He said that one sub machine gun (SMG) was recovered at Kimbangulile area in... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Police Order an Audit of Gun Licences
30 March 2013
Star (Kenya)
Inspector General of Police David Kimaiyo has asked for a full list of all licensed firearms across the country as police launch an audit of guns and ammunition.
The police chief has asked for the audit from the Chief Firearms Licensing Officer who keeps records of all arms. Kimaiyo yesterday said he had called for the routine audit to establish how many guns are in private hands and those in custody of security agents, including those being used by police reservists... (GunPolicy.org)
Iran,Syria,United Kingdom,Kenya,North Korea
Iran, N. Korea, Syria Block Arms Trade Treaty at Last Minute
29 March 2013
Australian (Sydney)
Iran, North Korea and Syria have held up agreement on the first global treaty on the $US80 billion ($A76.97 billion) a year conventional arms trade.
The three states twice blocked moves to adopt a treaty by consensus at the end of 10 days of arduous talks at the UN headquarters.
Kenya announced that a coalition of countries from around the world would now take the treaty straight to the 193-member UN General Assembly next week for approval. It can be passed with a two... (GunPolicy.org)
Illegal Crime Guns Causing Havoc in Tanzania say Authorities
28 March 2013
Tanzania Daily News (Dar es Salaam)
Armed robbers are out of their lair again and are busy scheming, so it seems. It was reported in the press early this week that five suspected robbers had been gunned down by police in Kagera Region.
The robbers had engaged four motor vehicles in a stick-up and were robbing passengers when the police, who had already been tipped off, ambushed them. The police killed five suspects in the ensuing shoot-out. The police recovered two sub-machine guns in the process.
They... (GunPolicy.org)
Armed Violence Provokes Ban on Gun Licensing in Uganda
27 March 2013
Monitor (Kampala)
Kampala - Police have said they have stopped licensing of guns to people and ordered private security organisations to deploy more than one security guard at business premises.
The measure comes at the backdrop of increased armed robberies in the city and its suburbs that have claimed lives of more than four prominent businessmen since the year started.
"We are calling upon private security agencies to deploy about two or more security guards at every station as this... (GunPolicy.org)
Central Africa,East Africa,Ghana
Over 2,500 Firerms Destroyed Since 2001 in Ghana
26 March 2013
Spy Ghana (Ghana)
Ghana has played a major role in stopping the illicit trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) and has destroyed over 2,500 weapons since 2001, according to the Member of Parliament for Nadowli-Kaleo Constituency, Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin.
Addressing Parliamentarians from 12 countries in Africa on the strides Ghana has made in dealing with the illegal trade in guns, Hon. Bagbin stated that Ghana is an active member of the global efforts to control illicit... (GunPolicy.org)
Drunk Kenyan Cop Threatens Citizens with Gun
26 March 2013
Star (Kenya)
A police officer who was allegedly harassing members of the public in Siakago town last weekend by cocking his gun and threatening to shoot them is facing disciplinary measures.
Reliable sources told the star that the officer who was armed with an AK47 rifle was guarding the Cooperative Bank in Siakago town when he began harassing members of public.
The sources said he would now and then sneak into a nearby bar and drink beer before going back to his station.... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Gangs Stealing Weapons from Police, Terrorising Citizens
22 March 2013
New Vision (Kampala)
The Police have listed over a dozen criminal gangs that are terrorising residents in and around Kampala.
The media has recently been awash with reports of daring thugs raiding police stations and making off with weapons, killing or injuring security personnel and civilians in addition to rampant robberies of money and property.
Recently thugs raided Mpala police station on Entebbe road and stole a gun and ammunition. Last week a gang raided the suburb of Bweyogerere... (GunPolicy.org)
3,100 Illicit Small Arms and Light Weapons Destroyed in Tanzania
20 March 2013
IPP Media
German Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) and the Tanzanian Police have agreed to strengthen their cooperation in the fight against organised crime and international terrorism.
"The fight against international terrorism, piracy, organized crime and also everyday crime remains the essential task of the security authorities throughout the world … therefore, international cooperation is crucial …," stated the German Ambassador Klaus-Peter Brandes.
He emphasised... (GunPolicy.org)
Somalia: Unlicensed Guns Outlawed, Owners Required to Register
19 March 2013
Sabahi (Washington, DC)
Galgadud regional authorities on Monday (March 18th) arrested nine people for illegal possession of firearms, UN-funded Radio Bar-Kulan reported.
The suspects were arrested in the Marer Gur, Ina Mad and Gadon villages and will soon be charged in court with breaking regional regulations, said Dusamareb security boss Farhan Moalim Ali.
Ali said the crackdown on illegal gun ownership will continue and urged locals to support the administration's security mission by... (GunPolicy.org)
Congo (DRC),Zimbabwe,Mozambique,Angola,Zambia,Africa
Zambia Calling for a 'Bullet-Proof' Arms Trade Treaty
18 March 2013
Times of Zambia
TODAY (March 18, 2013) will be a crunch day of epic proportions when the United Nations Organisation (UN) convenes at its New York Headquarters to start negotiations to conclude an Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) that has the potential to forever regulate the hitherto unregulated trade in conventional weapons.
The global trade in conventional weapons - from warships and battle tanks to fighter jets and machine guns - remains poorly regulated. No internationally agreed... (GunPolicy.org)
Strict Gun Control Is Long Overdue in Uganda
14 March 2013
Observer (Kampala), Editorial
The minister of Defence, Dr Crispus Kiyonga, has promised stricter gun control in the aftermath of a shooting incident in Bombo town council in which 10 people were killed.
Kiyonga told Parliament on Wednesday that security organs are to review their discipline and gun control measures in a bid to achieve institutional tight control on firearms. This is long overdue as there have been far too many shooting incidents in Uganda involving armed security officers over the... (GunPolicy.org)
UN Security Council Opts for a Partial Lift of Somalia Arms Embargo
8 March 2013
Garowe Online (Garowe), Opinion
The UN Security Council in a surprisingly unanimous vote opted for a partial lift of the 21 year old -virtually non-existent - arms embargo that dawned on Somalia after the breakout of civil war. Since then, a steady of flow of small arms has been funnelled into the conflict prone country despite the Security Council having knowledge of the proliferation of small arms.
Knowing that, will that stop the conflict in the war torn country - who was able to shrewdly import... (GunPolicy.org)
Europe,China,Asia,Americas,Oceania,Kenya,Cuba,Côte d'Ivoire,Africa,Central America,Russia,United States
Women Explain Why an Arms Trade Treaty Can Save Many Lives
7 March 2013
Amnesty International (London), Media release
It is estimated at least half a million people are killed with guns every year and on average a further 200,000 men, women and children die as an indirect result of armed conflicts and violence that are frequently fuelled by the uncontrolled flow of small arms.
And for every person that is killed in an armed conflict, many more are injured and tortured, raped, abused, forcibly disappeared, taken hostage or displaced. Even more have their access to food, water, shelter,... (GunPolicy.org)
Sudanese Officials Call for Citizens to Disarm Voluntarily
2 March 2013
Sudan Tribune (France)
Bentiu — Local leaders in Unity state called for a new round of voluntarily civilian disarmament at a two-day conference in Bentiu last week to address the issue of violent crime and cattle raiding.
The conference, facilitated by the Conflict Mitigation and Stabilization Initiative (CMSI) brought chiefs, executives directors, civil society groups and police officers from Unity state's nine counties together to discuss how to persuade civilians to handover illegal... (GunPolicy.org)
China,Africa,Côte d'Ivoire,Somalia,Angola,South Africa,Sudan,Zimbabwe,Kenya
Unknown Quantities of Chinese Arms in Africa a Concern
21 February 2013
Star (Kenya), Opinion
Much is being written and said in the media and academic circles about China's increasing engagement with Africa on many economic and other fronts.
Some see this as benefiting Africa; others as detrimental to the real needs of African countries and peoples. Some critics have used phrases like "the second scramble for Africa" and "re-colonization of Africa" to describe the new development. The debate goes on.
Yet, there is one subject that has not received the serious... (GunPolicy.org)
Russia,Nigeria,Madagascar,Guinea
Nigeria Charges Russian 'Gun Dealers' for Smuggling
19 February 2013
BBC News
Fifteen Russian sailors have been charged in a court in Nigeria's main city, Lagos, with illegally bringing weapons into the country.
The crew of the MV Myre Seadiver were denied bail by the High Court, pending a final ruling on Monday.
The Nigerian navy had seized the ship, owned by Moscow-based security firm Moran, last October.
Moran has said the ship had permission to carry arms and had stopped in Lagos to change crew.
The vessel had been travelling from... (GunPolicy.org)
Tanzania Celebrates Gun Destruction in East Africa
17 February 2013
Tanzania Daily News (Dar Es Salaam)
The Vice-President, Dr Mohamed Gharib Bilal, has said that recovery of more than 500,000 small arms and light weapons presently in wrong hands in the East African region would be possible through shared information among the member states.
Speaking at the destruction of illicit small arms and light weapons, the event held at Ukonga Prisons Ground on the outskirts of Dar es Salaam, and witnessed by delegates to the East African Community (EAC) Joint Meeting of the... (GunPolicy.org)
Illicit Gun Trade in Mogadishu, Somalia: A Lucrative Business
12 February 2013
al Jazeera
MOGADISHU, Somalia - The car barely came to a stop when a hand softly knocked at the tinted passenger seat window. The window rolled down, revealing a tall, skinny figure wearing a half-buttoned, baggy polyester shirt, a red sarong, and pink sandals - and holding a rusty AK-47 in his left hand.
"Seven-hundred fifty dollars," he said in a firm voice, barely making eye contact, before dropping the fully loaded gun onto this reporter's lap. Another 10 men came rushing... (GunPolicy.org)
Iran,Yemen,North Korea,Libya,Somalia,Africa
UN Monitors See Weapons in Somalia from Yemen, Iran
10 February 2013
Reuters
As the United States pushes for an end to the U.N. arms embargo on Somalia, U.N. monitors are reporting that Islamist militants in the Horn of Africa nation are receiving arms from distribution networks linked to Yemen and Iran, diplomats told Reuters.
The U.N. Security Council's sanctions monitoring team's concerns about Iranian and Yemeni links to arms supplies for al Shabaab militants come as Yemen is asking Tehran to stop backing armed groups on Yemeni soil. Last... (GunPolicy.org)
Tanzania Govt Considers Allowing Gun Ownership in Zanzibar
8 February 2013
Tanzania Daily News (Dar es Salaam)
DODOMA — The government will look into the possibility of people in Zanzibar to own firearms but the matter will be worked out carefully to study its legal status and other various implications.
The Deputy Minister for Home Affairs, Mr Pereila Ame Silima, told the Parliament that according to the law, the Firearms Decree Cap section 165, Zanzibaris are not allowed to own firearms except for security organs.
He said due to the fact that normal civilians in the Isles... (GunPolicy.org)
Critics Worried About Failing Disarmament Efforts in Kenya
6 February 2013
Capital FM (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — With less than a month to go until Kenya's general election, analysts are warning that widespread illegal gun ownership presents real risks to security. Government efforts to disarm the population have been ineffective, they say.
The warnings come after a series of violent incidents, particularly between pastoral and farming communities fighting over water, grazing rights and other resources.
Clashes between the Orma and Pokomo groups in the Tana Delta... (GunPolicy.org)
Official Urges South Sudan to Disarm in New Campaign
4 February 2013
Voice of America
AWEIL, South Sudan — The head of South Sudan's Bureau for Small Arms Control has called for a nationwide effort to drastically reduce the number of firearms in the country, saying a "gun-free society" is key to stability in the fledgling nation.
"It is absolutely fundamental for all of us – for communities, for the government, for religious leaders, for traditional leaders, for you and everybody - to ensure we live in a peaceful environment, a gun-free society.... (GunPolicy.org)
Political Aides in Kenya Accused of Misusing Guns
31 January 2013
Star (Kenya)
Detectives are investigating alleged threats and misuse of firearms by aides to some politicians in Mombasa County.
Coast provincial police boss Aggrey Adoli said his office had received complaints over misuse of arms which had caused a major security threat during campaigns.
"We want to establish if the bodyguards who have been brandishing pistols and shooting in the air in public places have genuine license to carry the firearms," said Adoli.
A senior police... (GunPolicy.org)
West Africa,East Africa,Kenya,Uganda,Rwanda,Tanzania,Burundi
East Africa Civil Society Calls for Tougher Laws to Curb Illegal Gun Trade
27 January 2013
New Vision (Kampala)
The East Africa Action Network on small arms (EAANSA) has called for tougher laws and increased vigilance among member states of the East African community (EAC) to curb illegal movement of small arms and light weapons.
According to the executive secretary EAANSA, Richard Mugisha, considering that the dynamics and movement of small arms and light weapons (SALWs) transcend the political boarders that divide state parties within East Africa, there is need for increased... (GunPolicy.org)
UK Authorizes Guns for Madagascar Despite Diversion, Hunting Fears
27 January 2013
Mongabay / TanaNews (Madagascar)
Britain has authorized the export of thousands of guns to Madagascar, according to TanaNews.com, sparking concerns that the firearms could be used for hunting endangered lemurs.
Data from the UK government's Strategic Export Controls website shows that licenses for the export of 3,174 guns to Madagascar were granted between August 2011 and June 2012. Most of the weapons were for anti-piracy activities, but 190 sporting guns — guns specifically intended for hunting... (GunPolicy.org)
Czech Republic,Hungary,Côte d'Ivoire,Iran,Guinea,Niger,Russia,South Sudan,China,Uganda,Afghanistan,Nigeria,Kenya,Iraq,Congo (DRC)
Trail of Bullet Casings Leads from Africa's Wars Back to Iran
11 January 2013
New York Times
The first clues appeared in Kenya, Uganda and what is now South Sudan. A British arms researcher surveying ammunition used by government forces and civilian militias in 2006 found Kalashnikov rifle cartridges he had not seen before. The ammunition bore no factory code, suggesting that its manufacturer hoped to avoid detection.
Within two years other researchers were finding identical cartridges circulating through the ethnic violence in Darfur. Similar ammunition then... (GunPolicy.org)
England & Wales,Djibouti,Sri Lanka,Yemen,Somalia,European Union
British Authorities Question Legality, Security of 'Floating' Gun Armouries
10 January 2013
Guardian (UK)
Private security companies guarding ships against Somali pirates are increasingly storing their weapons on so-called "floating armouries" in international waters, to avoid arms smuggling laws when they dock in ports.
About 20 ships stocked with assault rifles and other small arms as well as ammunition, body armour and night vision goggles are scattered around the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, the EU naval force has confirmed.
The legal status of... (GunPolicy.org)
Somalia,United States,Ethiopia,Yemen,Libya,Israel,European Union,East Africa,Kenya,Ukraine,Russia
Special Investigation: Lack of Gun Treaty Fuels Kenyan Smuggling Trade
9 January 2013
Star (Kenya)
Whether looking after his herd of cattle or taking them to the watering point, Boru hardly leaves his AK47 behind. He lives in the outskirts of Gambella village, a few kilometres from Isiolo town.
"It has become like a stick for me. I carry it around and my enemies fear me. It gives me more power than I had before I acquired it," Boru said.
Taking cover from the scorching sun under the shade of an old acacia tree, Boru, a father of three, told the Star he bought his... (GunPolicy.org)
Tanzanian Police Recover 439 Illegal Firearms in Amnesty
8 January 2013
Sabahi / Guardian (Dar Es Salaam)
Tanzanian police recovered 439 illegal firearms from citizens in a month-long drive to collect unlicensed weapons, police spokesperson Advera Senso announced Monday (January 7th).
The police drive, which ended January 5th, afforded Tanzanians an opportunity to give up their illegal arms without consequence, Tanzania's The Guardian reported. Surrendered weapons included shotguns, rifles, submachine guns, pistols, air guns and rockets.
Police will now begin a... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda,Ethiopia,Kenya,South Sudan,Somalia,East Africa,Tanzania
Special Investigation: How Smugglers are Flooding Kenya with Guns
8 January 2013
Star (Kenya), Series
There are estimated 530,000-680,000 firearms in the wrong hands in Kenya. The number of illegal arms has grown over the years and is said to fuel the conflicts witnessed within Kenya and the region.
In an investigation that took close to a year, our correspondent Kassim Mohamed tracked down some of the people who smuggle small arms and light weapons into Kenya and unveils a dangerous trend that can affect the current peace if nothing is done by not just the Kenyan... (GunPolicy.org)
Zimbabwe,Pakistan,Colombia,United States,Brazil
Brazil Should Continue Responsible Gun Control, Reduce Deaths Further
25 December 2012
Rio Times, Opinion
RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil – Last week's slaughter of twenty elementary school children in the United States has tragic echoes with the massacre in Realengo, Rio de Janeiro earlier this year. At 8:30 AM on April 7th, Wellington Oliveira calmly walked into a classroom with two .38 and .32 caliber handguns, and shot twelve children dead.
At least sixty shots were fired and twenty boys and girls were critically wounded. It was the worst school massacre in Brazilian history.... (GunPolicy.org)
Tanzania Succeeds in Impounding 304 Illegally Owned Firearms
20 December 2012
Daily News (Dar es Salaam)
Armed robbers have once again emerged from their lair in the criminal underworld after a brief lull. Three robbers shot the cashier of Artan Company of Dar es Salaam as he was about to take 150m/- to a bank. The victim died in hospital later.
One of the robbers shot and killed an incensed bystander in the presence of police officers who was about to hit him with a stone. The police say all three robbers have been apprehended but confess to have failed to recover the... (GunPolicy.org)
The Role of Guns in South Sudan Violence
16 December 2012
Sudan Tribune (France)
Last week, in commemoration of Human Rights Day, I was interviewed by Radio France International (RFI) http://us.mg5.mail.yahoo.com/neo/#http://www.english.rfi.fr/africa/20121211-protestors-killed-south-sudan so as to highlight the issues of human rights abuses in South Sudan. The interview was as timely as it was necessary. The increase of violent killings in Juba and around South Sudan is acknowledged by the country's Minister of Interior Alison Manani Magaya,... (GunPolicy.org)
200,000 Kenyan Households Possess Illegal Firearms
14 December 2012
Star (Kenya)
Between 170 Thousand and 200 thousand household have illegal firearms due to porous borders. Internal security assistant Minister Alfred Khangati says the government is at the moment carrying out a disarmament program. Khangati says a policy on small arms has been drawn and awaits cabinet... (GunPolicy.org)
Separatists Attempt to Steal Guns from Police Before Kenya Election
10 December 2012
Reuters
Sixty men armed with machetes, clubs and bows and arrows tried and failed to steal guns from a police station in Mombasa, in the biggest attack planned by separatists seeking independence for Kenya's Indian Ocean coastal strip, police said on Monday.
Police intercepted the men on their way to the station. They said they belonged to the secessionist Mombasa Republic Council (MRC), an accusation rejected by its leaders, and that three separatists were later killed in a... (GunPolicy.org)
Call for Illegal Arms to be Impounded in Tanzania
6 December 2012
Tanzania Daily News (Dar es Salam), Opinion
Recent State campaign against illegal ownership of small firearms succeeded in impounding 304 guns. It is kudos for the Police Force.
The number of firearms found during the brief campaign must have shocked the nation. The find pointed to the stark reality that too many arms were in dangerous hands. In fact, armed banditry has escalated to alarming proportions in the last few months.
It is this nettling situation that has prompted the government to issue an ultimatum... (GunPolicy.org)
Tanzania Orders Unlicensed Gun Holders to Surrender Weapons
5 December 2012
AfriqueJet
Unlicensed gun holders in Tanzania have 30 days from Wednesday (5 Dec) to surrender the weapons to the police or risk legal action, Home Affairs Minister Emmanuel Nchimbi has said. Underlining the general public concern about the increased incidents of armed robberies around the country, Mr. Nchimbi said the government had issued a one-month notice as the last chance for persons in illegal possession of firearms.
"At the expiry of this period we are going to take... (GunPolicy.org)
Somalia,South Africa,Côte d'Ivoire,Sudan,Zimbabwe,United States,China
China 'Aggressively' Supplying Africa With Guns, Military Equipment
28 November 2012
Global Post (Boston)
JOHANNESBURG, South Africa — China's aggressive new strategy to sell weapons in Africa was on clear display at a recent defense exposition here.
The pavilion for Chinese manufacturers was among the three largest at the Africa Aerospace and Defense exhibition in September, surpassed only by host South Africa and the United States, the world's largest weapons maker by far.
Many of the made-in-China weapons touted by firms such as Norinco and Poly Technologies were... (GunPolicy.org)
'Crisis' of Armed Violence in South Sudan Despite Disarmament, says NGO
27 November 2012
Médecins Sans Frontières, Media release
JUBA — A report released today by Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) highlights the devastating impact of violence on the lives and health of civilians in South Sudan's Jonglei state. Women and children as young as four months old are among the victims. Healthcare is threatened as medical facilities are targeted and destroyed.
Jonglei state has a long history of intercommunal cattle-raiding; however, since 2009 thousands of civilians, women and children have been... (GunPolicy.org)
Congo (DRC),United States,Burkina Faso,Tanzania
US Entrepreneurs Turning Thousands of African AK-47s into Jewellery
26 November 2012
New York Times
NEW YORK — As icons go, few things communicate global menace more effectively than the stark silhouette of an AK-47. Designed more than six decades ago by Mikhail Kalashnikov, a former Soviet tank commander, the assault rifle boasts the dubious distinction of being the most abundant and reliable killing device in history.
"In much of the world they are everyman's gun," the New York Times foreign correspondent C.J. Chivers wrote in "The Gun," his 2010 social history... (GunPolicy.org)
Anti-Poaching Operation Seizes Tusks, Illegal Weapons in Tanzania
19 November 2012
Tanzania Daily News (Dar es Salaam)
Government trophies worth 618.4m/- were seized at Tunduru, Ruvuma Region, in an on-going operation by a special joint task force formed by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism.
The operation, which was launched in July this year, impounded 297 firearms, 370 rounds of ammunition and 150 shell castings.
The type of firearms seized included 47 submachine guns, 225 homemade guns (gobole), 23 rifles, two SARs, one SMG, and one Egyptian G3.
Trophies seized include... (GunPolicy.org)
South Sudan Passes New Law on Guns, Bans Possession Without Licence
15 November 2012
Sudan Tribune (France)
BOR — Lawmakers in South Sudan's eastern state of Jonglei, the scene of a localised rebellion and controversial disarmament campaign, have passed a bill making it illegal for civilians to carry guns or ammunition without a licence.
The Social Firearms and Ammunitions Control Bill, passed in the state parliament's last session before the long Christmas recess, is in response to ongoing insecurity in the state.
It is almost a year since cattle raiding and reprisal... (GunPolicy.org)
Three Mozambique Soldiers Arrested for Gun Thefts, Selling to Criminals
14 November 2012
Agência de Informação de Moçambique (Mozambique)
MAPUTO — Three members of the Mozambican Armed Forces (FADM) have been arrested for stealing and selling firearms.
According to Orlando Mudumane, spokesperson for the Maputo City Police Command, cited in Wednesday's issue of the daily paper "Noticias", the men, named as 29 year old A.
Francisco, M. Kuamende (42) and I Naveta (29), are stationed at different FADM units in Maputo City and Province. Also arrested was 28 year old F, Joao, who purchased one of the stolen... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Police Officer Shoots Wife, Kills Daughter and Self
29 October 2012
Capital FM (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — A police officer shot and killed his 23-year-old daughter in Kakamega and wounded his wife before killing himself on Monday morning.
The officer had just collected his AK 47 rifle from the armoury at 7.30am in readiness to go supervise the ongoing Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations when he suddenly went back to his house and found his daughter in the kitchen preparing breakfast.
"As soon as he collected the rifle, he was supposed... (GunPolicy.org)
Man Arrested in Kenya Over Alleged Illegal Gun Possession
26 October 2012
Star (Kenya)
A man who was arrested in Laikipia for ferrying firearms was yesterday arraigned before a Nyahururu court.
Lucas Lolodepe denied the charges of illegal possession of firearms.
Appearing before Nyahururu principal magistrate William Chepseba, he denied eight counts of holding various types of guns.
According to the charge sheet, they included six AK 47 rifles, two G3 and seven Russian made carrabine guns. He was also arrested with five rounds of ammunition and working... (GunPolicy.org)
Tanzania Govt Plans New Gun Management Efforts to Curb Death Toll
25 October 2012
Tanzania Daily News (Dar es Salaam)
BAGAMOYO — The government is planning to introduce a firearms management organ to prevent abuse of the weapons by those possessing them legally, the Civilian Owned Firearms Registrar, Superintendent of Police (SP), Tulibake Mkondya, has said.
Speaking during media sensitization on peace and security here, Ms Mkondya, said the new organ will be training those applying for firearm's possession, saying the legal firearm owners will be undergoing frequent shooting range... (GunPolicy.org)
Eritrea Gives Citizens AK-47s, Forces Citizens to Train and Patrol Streets
24 October 2012
Ethiopian Review / Slate Afrique
The Eritrean government has launched a comprehensive program of distribution of machine guns and ammunition to the population, especially in the cities. A measure that sows fear and confusion among Eritreans inside and in the diaspora.
Since Spring 2012, with the usual silent paranoia that characterizes the government of Eritrea has been forcing ordinary citizens to be enlisted in neighborhood militias, according to the testimony of many Eritreans in the country and... (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)
Somalia,Congo (DRC),Kenya,South Sudan,Sudan,Uganda,East Africa
East Africa States to Work Together to Reduce Gun Trafficking
16 October 2012
New Vision (Kampala)
Directors of Criminal Intelligence and Investigations Directorates (CIID) in the East African region on Monday resolved to support Somalia to neutralise gun trafficking across the region.
The directors said arms traffickers were taking advantage of Somalia's instability and location next to the sea.
The Inspector General of Police, Lt. Gen. Kale Kayihura, said Somalia, which is now a reconstructed state, is ready to halt and thrash all culprits in gun trafficking... (GunPolicy.org)
Second Security Official Gunned Down in Kenya
15 October 2012
Garowe Online (Somalia)
DADAAB, Kenya — Gunmen killed an official of the Dadaab security committee in broad daylight on Monday, Garowe Online reports.
According to sources, four gunmen in the IFO camp part of the massive Dadaab refugee camp killed Mahad Said Duaseyne on Monday, a high-ranking member of the camps security committee.
The gunmen fled the scene after the shooting and authorities are currently investigating the killing.
According to witnesses, Mr. Duaseyne was shot repeatedly... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Police Seize AK-47 Rifles, Ammo from Bus
6 October 2012
Star (Kenya)
Anti-terrorism police officers yesterday seized two AK-47 rifles, 60 rounds of ammunition and three AK-47 magazines in a bus at Mokowe in Lamu.
The Mombasa bound bus belonging to Najah Company was intercepted after intelligence reports indicated that it was smuggling the firearms.
Coast provincial police boss Aggrey Adoli said the seizure is a major breakthrough on the war against terror.
Ten suspects including the driver of the bus, conductor and passengers are... (GunPolicy.org)
Turkey,Djibouti,United Arab Emirates
Men Cleared of Trafficking Arms from Turkey to UAE
26 September 2012
National (Abu Dhabi)
The State Security Court has cleared four men of smuggling firearms and bullets into the UAE.
Customs detected the "large amount" of guns and ammunition as they passed through Jebel Ali Port on their way to Djibouti from Turkey. Accompanying documents said it contained soap.
The lawyer for the four men said they had no knowledge of the contents. He said they worked for a company in Dubai that specialises in shipments that transit through the UAE.
The company is said... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Police Accused of 'Brutality' During Gun Disarmament Campaign
25 September 2012
Star (Kenya), Opinion
Security agencies are conducting a disarmament exercise in Tana River that is necessary to flush out guns illegally held by locals.
It is highly likely that these firearms were used in the recent spate of violence that left more than 110 people dead and thousands displaced. While most of the deaths were from what police describes as crude weapons including pangas and clubs, a few gunshot wounds were reported. Guns could have also been used to subdue the victims before... (GunPolicy.org)
Call for Police in Burundi, Tanzania to Combat Illegal Gun Trade, Crime
13 September 2012
Citizen (Dar es Salaam)
Cross-border crime has been a major concern in the Great Lakes Region, which is awash with small arms.
Raids, abductions and robberies have common. We therefore commend Tanzania and Burundi for planning to jointly tackle banditry in Lake Tanganyika and beyond it. For a long time Burundians and Tanzanians at their border have been at the mercy of a network of crime gangs.
Criminals from Burundi have been hiding in Tanzania after committing offences in that country and... (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)
Spanish Authorities Seize 22,272 Pistols Being Smuggled to Djibouti
4 September 2012
Fox News Latino (USA) / EFE News Agency
Authorities in this southern Spanish port seized 22,272 pistols that were being smuggled in a container declared to be transporting textiles from Turkey to the East African nation of Djibouti.
The weapons, which could have fetched more than 2 million euros ($2.5 million) on the international arms market, were seized on Aug. 28 in what is considered to be the largest illegal arms shipment intercepted by Spanish customs authorities in recent years, the Civil Guard and... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Police Blame Gun, Ammo Smuggling for Rise in Murder Rate
24 August 2012
Observer (Kampala)
Police yesterday said murders in the country were on the rise because of the rampant influx of guns and ammunition through Uganda's porous borders.
Police publicist Simon Kuteesa told journalists that most of the murders in the country were a result of shooting, mob justice, assault, suicide and love gone bad.
"The major challenge we have is that our borders are porous and there is no way we can fight the influx of the ammunitions," Kuteesa said, as police released... (GunPolicy.org)
Tanzania Police Recover Sawn-Off Shotgun from Fleeing Bandit
18 August 2012
Arusha Times (Tanzania)
Police in Arusha have recovered a Shortgun - Greener GP - abandoned by bandits when Police were tailing them.
Arusha's Regional Police Commander, Liberatus Sabas told reporters in his office on Wednesday that the incident happened on August 12.
He explained that when the suspects realized that they were being pursued by Patrol Police they relieved themselves of a bag that one of them was carrying and fled.
Police picked up the bag only to find out that its contents... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Police Order Community to Give Up Guns After Deaths
18 August 2012
Star (Kenya)
The government yesterday issued a seven-day ultimatum to the warring pastoralists and farmers in Tana River to surrender all illegal firearms before they are forcibly disarmed. Coast PC Samuel Kilele issued the order after a more than four-hour meeting leaders in Garsen. The meeting was attended by senior provincial security chiefs including police boss Aggrey Adoli, area MP Danson Mungatana and leaders from the two communities.
Kilele said he was aware that there were... (GunPolicy.org)
Zambia Security Guard Shoots Self in Leg at Shopping Mall
18 August 2012
Times (Zambia)
A security guard from Armguard Security Company yesterday accidentally shot himself in the leg in a bizarre incident at Great East Mall in Chipata, Eastern Province.
The guard, who has been identified as Tazman Siyamboni, was on duty providing security to bank officials who were loading money in the Automated Teller Machines (ATM) when he accidentally pulled the trigger of a green rifle gun and shot himself in the leg.
The incident happened in full view of some... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Police, Army Mark Own Weapons to Curb Illicit Trade
10 August 2012
Observer (Kampala)
Hoping to curb the use of illicit small arms and light weapons, the police, army and prisons will inscribe electronic bar codes on all guns in their armouries.
The country has recently been rocked by violent crimes, especially murders and armed robberies. And the police and other security organs blame this increased wave of criminal activities on illegal firearms. Speaking at a recent national workshop for the media and armed forces on the small arms and light weapons,... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Urge Media to Steer Fight Against Illegal Guns in Rwanda
8 August 2012
Rwanda National Police News, Media release
On 06 Aug 2012, the Regional Centre on Small Arms (RECSA) in collaboration with the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) and the National Focal Point Coordination met the local media in a bid to assess its role in creating awareness towards fighting trafficking of illicit and proliferation of small arms and light weapons (SALW) in the country.
Media as a form of communication which is accessible to nearly every Rwandan is being relied on to sensitize and advice the... (GunPolicy.org)
Proposed New Law Would Give Kenyan Spies Power to Carry, Use Guns
2 August 2012
Star (Kenya)
Spy agents will soon have powers to carry and use firearms in an attempt to deal with increasing security threats. The National Intelligence Service Bill 2012 which is now before Parliament also gives the agency's Director General, "in the event of extreme emergency" unfettered access to any place, seize any property including information and document [sic] and restrain suspects from escaping.
There is however a caveat that the DG shall "as soon as practically... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya,East Africa,Syria,Uganda
Stemming Gun Violence in Uganda
28 July 2012
Independent (Kampala)
United Nations diplomats from over 190 countries, including Uganda, are at the organisation's headquarters in New York discussing a pact to regulate the global arms trade.
The Global Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) would especially check the illicit trade in arms in a global arms industry that, while amounting to US$60 billion, remains unregulated. Advocates for the treaty say this lack of regulation of the arms industry is catastrophic, as it fuels conflicts that claim... (GunPolicy.org)
Firearm Statistics in Somalia at a Glance
24 July 2012
Somaliland Sun (Somalia)
Using data from several weapons policy and prevention surveys we were able to extract key information about weapons policy and proliferation in Somalia. We hope it is of use to those looking to get general information about small arms throughout Somalia and if there are policies regulating their usage.
The surveys were taken between 2002 and 2011.
Numbers
- There are between 550,000 to 750,000 privately-owned firearms in Somalia
- 9.1 out of every 100 Somalis own a... (GunPolicy.org)