The firearms were destroyed as part of the police service's amnesty period as well as those confiscated and surrendered by law enforcement.

Police spokesperson Brenda Muridili says close to 25 000 weapons were destroyed. 

“A notice was published in the Government Gazette on 9 June 2021 with 24 910 firearms intended to be destroyed. As per section 136(2) of the abovementioned Act, interested parties who had a valid claim to the relevant firearms or ammunition were invited to make representations within 21 days after the publication of the notice in the Gazette to the Registrar as to why the identified firearms or ammunition should not be destroyed. 

“The SAPS received nine representations and that led to the melting of the 24 901 firearms which included 3 610 rifles, 3 083 shotguns, 17 383 handguns and other parts.” 

Over 50% of the firearms destroyed were handed in during the 2019/20 and the 2020/21 firearm amnesty periods. 

The firearms were also subjected to IBIS testing which did not link them to positive hits nor firearm applications.

Jacaranda