By: Isuru Parakrama
October 21, Colombo (LNW): More than 50 firearms have been handed over in response to the Ministry of Defence’s directive requiring civilians to temporarily surrender firearms and ammunition issued to them.
This measure was enacted under the authority granted to the Defence Secretary by Sections 6(1) and 6(2) of the Firearms Ordinance Act No. 33 of 1916, allowing the government to assume temporary control of firearms.
According to Ministry sources, the move is part of a broader review process, with all firearms set to be reissued following a thorough assessment.
Civilians with licensed firearms have been instructed to submit their weapons and ammunition to the Commercial Explosive Firearms and Ammunition Procurement Unit (CEFAP), located at the Sri Lanka Navy camp in Welisara, before the deadline of 7th November 2024.
Despite the ongoing returns, approximately 1,650 firearm licences have been issued for various purposes, highlighting the scale of the review.
Ministry officials reiterated that failure to comply with the surrender order would result in legal action under the Firearms Ordinance Act.
However, the Ministry clarified that firearms issued for specific uses, such as property or crop protection and sporting activities, are exempt from the current regulation.
As the review progresses, the Ministry expects a larger number of firearms to be returned in the coming days, as compliance is essential to avoid penalties.
