NATIONAL GOVERNMENT TO BUY ILLEGAL FIREARMS DURING 21-DAY AMNESTY
The National Government will buy illegal firearms from citizens during a 21-day amnesty period starting later this month.
The amnesty will allow all citizens in possession of illegal firearms to surrender them to police without penalty. Police Minister Sir John Bundare announced this last Friday at the Gateway Hotel in Port Moresby.
“The illegal gun amnesty will come into effect nationwide from February 27, 2026,” Sir John said.
“The incentive is cash for illegal guns. In my last press conference, I said there would be no cash for illegal guns. But now, when we give you cash, we will tell you not to buy more illegal guns. Instead, we advise you to invest that money for sustainable outcomes. This is where we want you to invest it: cash for illegal guns, but the money must be put to good use. There is a price for each illegal gun we buy, subject to National Executive Council approval.”
“For the 21 days, if you surrender your guns, the law will not hold you accountable. However, your details will be recorded, and payments will be made directly into your bank accounts. But if you hold on to them after 21 days, the law will find you. The gun you would have gotten paid for the money will go to informants who will be paid for information and security forces will come for you.”
Human lives and property have been lost for years due to illegal firearms, and this initiative aims to remove them from communities across Papua New Guinea.
Sir John also called on non-government organisations, ordinary citizens, and leaders to advocate for surrenders starting in their own family households.
“Wherever you are serving in this country, advocate for the surrender of illegal guns. Make it happen wherever you are. I ask all church leaders to come in and participate. Let us say no to illegal guns.”
The announcement reverses the government’s previous stance against buying illegal guns.
Sir John further noted that the Highlands region, where he comes from, is where illegal guns are commonly used.
He called on his people and the provinces in the region to start surrendering unlicensed guns.
