Guns amnesty to end in 16 September

With just one month left before the National Firearms Amnesty ends on September 16, Police Minister Sir John Pundari is calling on national and provincial leaders to work closely with police and mobilize communities to surrender illegal firearms.

The program has already seen more than 200 weapons handed in, particularly from Enga, with additional surrenders reported from surrounding Highlands and East New Britain provinces.

Illegal firearm owners across Papua New Guinea have been reminded they have only one month left before the National Firearms Amnesty closes on Independence Day.

Minister Pundari said when the grace period for surrendering weapons expires, police will arrest anyone found in possession of illegal firearms after the deadline.

He said amnesty is the last opportunity for communities to hand in weapons voluntarily, before enforcement operations begin.

“I ask you all in the remaining 5-6 weeks, to come together as a nation and say no to illegal guns.” Sir John said.

Pundari commended the people of Enga province for their cooperation with police in surrendering more than 200 firearms.

He said this is a significant step towards peace and security. However, the Police minister is aware of some individuals who remain reluctant to give up their weapons.

“If you are still holding onto the illegal guns, treasuring it and not surrendering, there will be no tolerance,” he said.

The police minister warned that those holding onto illegal firearms are endangering their children’s future.

He urged the community leaders to act now and safeguard the next generation from the harm illegal guns can cause.