Staff Reporter
THE Namibian Police (NamPol) is calling on all citizens with illegal or unwanted arms, ammunition, and armaments to surrender these items to the nearest police station by 30 September 2024.
“This exercise is provided under Section 4(1) of the Arms and Ammunition Act, 1996 (Act No. 7 of 1996), which allows a person in possession of arms, ammunition, and armaments to surrender them at the nearest police station without facing prosecution, as per Sections 2, 29, and 33 of the Act,” explained NamPol’s Head of Public Relations, Deputy Commissioner Kauna Shikwambi.
She said the initiative aims to enhance public safety and emphasised that individuals who voluntarily surrender illegal or unwanted arms, ammunition, and armaments during the amnesty period will not face prosecution. However, she warned that after the amnesty period ends on 30 September 2024, anyone found in possession of illegal arms, ammunition, or armaments will be liable to prosecution.
“Therefore, the Namibian Police Force is urging everyone to participate actively in this amnesty, as it provides a chance to remove these potentially dangerous items from circulation, thereby contributing to community safety and avoiding future legal consequences,” Shikwambi advised.
Shikwambi revealed that between 2021 and 2023, a total of 1,568 firearms, 8,789 rounds of ammunition, four magazines, and seven explosive ordinances were surrendered to the police. These items, she said, were destroyed during the International Small Arms Destruction Day, observed globally on 9 July each year. The most recent destruction event took place in the Erongo Region on 9 July 2022.
“The Namibian Police Force hereby emphasises that this amnesty is a chance for individuals to make a positive impact on their community and avoid the serious consequences of illegal arms, ammunition, and armaments. We appreciate your cooperation in making Namibia a safer place for everyone,” Shikwambi added.
