SAPS answers about firearm licence renewal applications during nationwide lockdown
The SAPS has in a letter signed by Brig. Lawrence Nkgweng acknowledged receipt of AfriForum’s letter sent on 25 March 2020. The civil rights organisation’s legal team directed its letter to Gen. Bheki Cele, Minister of Police, as well as Gen. Khehla Sithole, National Police Commissioner.
AfriForum’s letter, among others, expressed the organisation’s concern that the nationwide lockdown will negatively affect the ability of firearm owners to renew their firearm licenses in good time. AfriForum’s letter furthermore enquires about the possibility for postponement of the deadline to firearm licence owners affected by this dilemma.
“The fact that the police acknowledged with a letter that they will address the matter, confirms that they now carry knowledge about the uncertainty and problems faced by affected firearm owners. AfriForum will now keep an eye on the SAPS and insist on steps to support the firearm owners in question,” says Marnus Kamfer, AfriForum’s Legal and Risk Manager for community safety.
