In commemorating the International Gun Destruction Day, the Malawi Police Service (MPS) has destroyed 733 illegal firearms confiscated from various individuals, in a bid to reduce the proliferation of firearms and enhance national security.
The exercise took place at National Police Headquarters in Lilongwe, where Deputy Inspector General responsible for Operations, Mr. Ackis Muwanga, who was the guest of honour, urged citizens to support MPS in building communities free from the threat of gun-related violence.
"I would like to remind everyone about the upcoming Amnesty Month, which falls in September each year. During this month, individuals are encouraged to voluntarily surrender illegal firearms to authorities without fear of being arrested," emphasized Muwanga.
He warned that those who deliberately ignore the call to surrender illegal firearms will face the law . “Illegal possession, manufacturing, distribution, or trafficking of firearms is a serious criminal offence that carries a severe custodial sentence,” he said.
Muwanga also commended sister security institutions, including Malawi Defence Force, Immigration Department, Prison Services, and the Department of National Parks and Wildlife, for their role in planning the event.
In his remarks, the Executive Director of the People’s Federation for National Peace and Development (PEFENAP), Edward Chaka, applauded the collaborative spirit that made the exercise successful.
“We found it wise to work with the Malawi Police Service in collecting firearms from all districts across Malawi to ensure that, once destroyed, they do not return to irresponsible circulation and cause harm to society,” stated Chaka.
International Gun Destruction Day is observed on 9th July annually to promote safe and responsible disposal of illegal, surplus, or surrendered firearms. The day aims to reduce the risk of gun violence and support global efforts toward peace, security, and public safety.