Over 50 firearms returned as per temporary handover notice by Defence Ministry

More than 50 firearms have been returned in response to the notice requiring civilians to temporarily hand over firearms and ammunition issued to them, according to Ministry of Defence sources. 

This decision was taken in compliance with the powers vested in the Defence Secretary under Sections 6(1) and 6(2) of the Firearms Ordinance Act No. 33 of 1916, allowing the government to takeover firearms temporarily. The Ministry stated that these firearms would be reissued after a review process.

The Ministry of Defence informed all licensees to submit their firearms and ammunition to the Commercial Explosive Firearms and Ammunition Procurement Unit (CEFAP) at the Sri Lanka Navy camp in Welisara before November 7, 2024.

As of now, it has been reported that nearly 50 firearms have been returned. However, around 1,650 firearm licenses have been issued by the Ministry for various reasons. 

The Ministry emphasized that all firearms and ammunition must be returned before the specified date, and legal action will be taken against those who fail to comply, as per the Firearms Ordinance Act No. 33 of 1916.

The Ministry also clarified that this regulation does not apply to firearms issued for property/crop protection or sports activities.