The Committee of Inquiry into the unscrupulous dealers in firearms and illegally operating firearms training institutions which was set up by the Minister of Police, Nathi Mthethwa in May this year, is progressing well and work is in full swing in this regard. The Committee of Inquiry focuses on allegations that certain firearm dealers are selling firearm competency certificates and licences.

The certificates are allegedly being issued by non-accredited training facilities. It is further alleged that there was collusion between certain firearm dealers and South African Police Service’ Central Firearm Registry. The Minister’s reaffirmation that the Committee of Inquiry continues comes amid a call made by Gun Free South Africa for an immediate moratorium on the issuing of all firearm licences, permits and certificates until the work of the committee is completed. He emphasized that by placing a moratorium during the investigation, would be unnecessary because if there are any unscrupulous practices currently taking place; the Committee would be able to uncover them right away and where criminal activities are detected, police shall act swiftly as has been the case in the past week.

The Minister urged Gun Free South Africa and other role-players in the industry to cooperate fully with the Committee so that any corruption or fraud which may exist is tackled collectively. The Committee is also expected to inform the Minister if the problem is miniscule, endemic or systemic. Minister Mthethwa is aware and fully supportive of the current SAPS internal investigation and suspension of some senior officials within the Central Firearms Registry. The Minister has assured South Africans that no stone will be left unturned during this investigation, reiterating that there would be no ‘untouchables’ and ‘no-go areas’ for the Committee. The Minister added that he expected the Committee to ‘dig deep’ in order to uncover any hidden fraud and corruption perpetrated by firearm dealers, training institutions or members of the SAPS.

The Minister has instructed the Committee to move as swiftly as possible and to provide him with regular briefings and interim reports. Once it completes its final report, which will include findings and remedial steps, we will share with the public.

For enquiries, please contact:

Zweli Mnisi, Spokesperson to the Minister of Police 082 045 4024
NATIONAL MEDIA CENTRE
Corporate Communication
South African Police Service
Office:+27 12-4006579 /6629 /6576
Fax: +27 12 - 400 7018