Govt opens amnesty window for illegal firearms holders
DAR ES SALAAM: THE government has launched a two-month nationwide firearm amnesty campaign, giving individuals an opportunity to voluntarily surrender illegal or unlicensed firearms without facing legal consequences.
The initiative, announced by the Minister for Home Affairs, Innocent Bashungwa, through the Tanzania Police Force, runs from August 31 to October 31, this year, according to Government Notice No. 537 issued last Friday.
Tanzania Police Force, Police Spokesperson Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police (SACP) David Misime said in a press statement that the amnesty is part of the government’s broader efforts to enhance internal security and support international initiatives to curb the spread of illicit small arms and light weapons.
“This is an important opportunity for citizens to voluntarily surrender illegal firearms without fear of arrest or prosecution,” said SACP Misime.
“We encourage all individuals in possession of such weapons to take full advantage of this grace period.”
The amnesty aligns with key international resolutions, including a 2018 United Nations declaration aimed at reducing the proliferation of illicit firearms and a 2017 African Union decision that designated every September as the month for voluntary firearm surrender across the continent, continuing until 2030.
As a member of both the UN and AU, Tanzania is fulfilling its international commitments through this initiative.
During the amnesty period, individuals may surrender illegal firearms at any police station, local government office, or through ward and Shehia executive officers, between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm daily.
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“Anyone surrendering weapons during this time will not face arrest or prosecution. However, after the deadline of October 31, this year, those found in possession of illegal firearms will be prosecuted under Tanzanian law,” SACP Misime warned.
The Police Force is also urging the relatives of deceased licensed firearm holders to return any firearms if proper legal transfer procedures were not completed.
SACP Misime said private security firms that may have inherited firearms from other companies without proper authorisation are required to surrender those weapons during the amnesty.
SACP Misime stressed that the borrowing or lending of firearms between individuals or companies is illegal and must stop immediately.
He also reminded licensed firearm owners to adhere strictly to all safety and legal standards in the storage and use of firearms, warning that misuse or negligence may result in legal action, including revocation of firearm licences.
“This is not just a legal matter, it’s a national security priority,” he said.
“Surrendering illegal weapons contributes directly to peace, public safety and the protection of lives. We urge all Tanzanians to act responsibly and support this initiative.”
The government hopes that the amnesty will lead to a significant reduction in the number of illegal firearms in circulation and strengthen efforts to build lasting peace and security across the country.
