Firearm Licence Renewal February 2009

Renewal of Firearm Licences, Permit or Authorization.

All persons who apply for the renewal of their firearm licenses, permits or authorizations after the expiry of their renewal period may be prosecuted for failing to renew their firearm licenses within the stipulated period and if convicted in a court of law, they may be sentenced up to a period of one year imprisonment or to a fine or to both such imprisonment and fine. Such convictions may also lead to a person being disqualified to possess a firearm in future.

Of significance to note, is, firearm licenses issued under the repealed Arms and Ammunition Act of 1969 will cease to be valid as from 01 July 2009.

In the event a firearm owner chooses not to renew his/her firearm license, permit or authorization, such a person must dispose of his/her firearm before the 1 July 2009. A person may choose to legally dispose of his/her firearm in a manner that is appropriate, for example:

- having the firearm deactivated by a licensed gunsmith after approval has been received from the South African Police Service. This is applicable if the owner still want to possess the "firearm" as a souvenir or heirloom.

- selling the firearm to a licensed firearm dealer or a legal entity who may lawfully possess the firearm.

- permanently exporting the firearm.

- selling or donating the firearm to another private person. Such a person may only take possession of the firearm after receiving the appropriate firearm license.

- voluntarily hand the firearm to the South African Police Service for full and permanent destruction. This service is free of charge. It is a criminal offence for any person to destroy his/her firearm.

To this end, the SAPS wishes to extend a special word of appreciation to all firearm owners who submitted their renewal applications on time. The SAPS is further urging and encouraging firearm owners to cooperate with the police by ensuring that all provisions of the Firearm Control Act, Act No 60 of 2000 are complied with and implemented to the letter. By so doing, together we will be addressing firearm-related crime by making sure that illegally possessed firearms are permanently removed from the society and also ensuring effective control over firearms owned legally by individuals, organizations, etc.

The Divisional Commissioner: Visible Policing -Commissioner Arno Lamoer is strongly urging all firearm license holders to renew their firearm licenses now so that they are not caught in the long queues at the eleventh hour. Members of the public must also take note of the fact that no extension of the renewal of the firearm licenses will be granted.

For more information, visit the SAPS website www.saps.gov.za or phone the National Firearms Call Centre at:
(012) 353 6111 or contact your local Designated Firearms Officer

Enquiries : Director Phuti Setati
South African Police Service
Head Office
Cell : 082 778 4312
Tel : (012) 393 5491
Fax : (012) 393 5525
e-mail: mediarelations@saps.org.za