PNG police to unveil gun buyback scheme

Source: Xinhua| 2020-02-12 09:48:12|Editor: ZD
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SYDNEY, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Papua New Guinea (PNG) Police Commissioner David Manning announced plans to implement a gun buyback scheme in order to reduce soaring violent crime rates in the country.

Local media reported on Tuesday that it is common for guns to be used in tribal disputes across PNG's rural communities, and they are being used in many other serious crimes such as murder and robberies as well.

"Firearms were illegally obtained by various communities to defend themselves against their tribal enemies. Up in the Highlands, firearms remain the prized possession of many tribes," Manning said.

"However in recent times, many of these firearms have been used in criminal activities and hired out to others as well."

The proposed buyback would involve a three-month nationwide amnesty, during which time all guns surrendered would be purchased by the government and no criminal action would be taken.

Beyond the amnesty period, Manning said the Police Department would be recommending life imprisonment for anybody caught with a firearm.

Manning pointed out that guns had recently been used in the killings of several policemen.

"About 80 percent of the serious crimes in in PNG, including murder and armed robbery, are committed with some form of firearm, whether home or factory-made," Manning said.

"If we are serious about getting rid of firearms from our communities, the gun buyback scheme is the best way forward."

Similar schemes have been implemented in countries including Argentina, Brazil, Australia and parts of the United States. 

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