MBABANE — The Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) has raised concern after not a single illegal firearm was surrendered during the 2025 African Union Firearm Amnesty Month, despite repeated appeals to the public throughout September.
The campaign, announced at the start of September, was meant to give Emaswati in possession of illegal firearms a chance to hand them over to the police without facing prosecution. The amnesty covered the entire month, offering full immunity to those who surrendered weapons voluntarily.
However, REPS revealed that just like in previous years, no one came forward, even as the country continues to battle a surge in violent crimes committed with unlicensed guns. The police noted that the number of incidents involving firearms has reached alarming levels, with robberies, murders, and attempted murders claiming several innocent lives.
During the amnesty period, police arrested seven people for being in possession of illegal firearms. A total of seven weapons were seized—five shotguns and two pistols—along with ten live rounds of ammunition.
The situation has remained troubling into October. REPS confirmed that within the first two weeks of the month, four additional suspects were arrested for illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. Two of the suspects are also facing attempted murder charges.
According to the Police Service, these arrests during and after the amnesty month show that a large number of illegal guns remain in circulation within communities. Authorities warned that such weapons continue to pose a serious threat to public safety.
National Commissioner of Police, Mr. M.V. Masango, said the Service will now intensify efforts to recover illegal firearms across the country through targeted nationwide operations. He noted that Emaswati had been given a “golden opportunity” to surrender their weapons without facing legal consequences, but many ignored the appeal.
Masango reiterated that the police remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens and will continue to collaborate with stakeholders in combating the spread of illegal firearms.
Members of the public are urged to report any information regarding individuals in possession of illegal weapons. The police assured that all reports will be treated confidentially.
The National Commissioner restated the Service’s operational mantra: “Sikhona as Police Service to be a Safety and Security Buffer for the Nation in Partnership with Stakeholders.”
For police assistance, the public may call 999, 9999, or 112.
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