Madang police urge illegal gun owners to surrender them

Madang Provincial Police Commander Superintendent Robert Baim is urging people in possession of illegal firearms to surrender them to police during the extended national gun amnesty.

The National Executive Council has extended the gun amnesty for another four months, with the new deadline set for December 25, 2026.

Superintendent Baim said the extension provides an opportunity for people holding illegal weapons to voluntarily surrender them and help remove firearms from circulation.

“Many firearms are in the wrong hands and contribute directly to criminal activities and serious harm to innocent people. Police are, therefore, urging all persons who are in possession of illegal guns, whether knowingly or otherwise, to do the right thing and surrender them during the amnesty period,” he said.

He said people who surrender illegal firearms during the amnesty can do so without facing arrest, provided they follow the required police processes and procedures.

Police will also work with relevant authorities and community stakeholders to make the surrender process accessible across the province, including in remote and rural areas.

However, Superintendent Baim warned that strict enforcement action would follow once the amnesty period ends.

“Police will not tolerate anyone still holding onto illegal guns after the end of the amnesty period. Those found in possession of illegal firearms after the amnesty will face severe penalties under the newly amended Firearms Act,” he said.

He said illegal firearms pose a serious threat to communities and that police remain committed to protecting lives and maintaining public safety.

People wishing to surrender firearms are advised to contact the appropriate police authorities to arrange a safe handover.

They can seek assistance through: