Pretoria – Police Minister, Nathi Mthethwa, has urged Gun Free South Africa and other role-players in the industry to cooperate fully with the Committee of Inquiry which focuses on allegations that certain firearm dealers are selling firearm competency certificates and licences.
The certificates are allegedly being issued by non-accredited training facilities. It is further alleged that there was collusion between certain firearm dealers and South African Police Service’ Central Firearm Registry.
Mthethwa said cooperation among role-players will ensure that any corruption or fraud which may exist is tackled collectively.
The committee, which was set up by the minister in May, is progressing well and work is in full swing in this regard, spokesperson Zweli Mnisi said.
Mnisi said Mthethwa has told the Committee to move as swiftly as possible and to provide him with regular briefings and interim reports.
“Once it completes its final report, which will include findings and remedial steps, we will share with the public.”
The Minister’s reaffirmation that the Committee of Inquiry continues, comes amid a call made by Gun Free South Africa, for an immediate moratorium on the issuing of all firearm licences, permits and certificates until the work of the committee is completed.
“He emphasized that by placing a moratorium during the investigation, would be unnecessary because if there are any unscrupulous practices currently taking place; the Committee would be able to uncover them right away and where criminal activities are detected, police shall act swiftly as has been the case in the past week,” Mnisi said.
The Committee is also expected to inform the Minister if the problem is miniscule, endemic or systemic.
According to Mnisi, the minister is aware and fully supportive of the current SAPS internal investigation and suspension of some senior officials within the Central Firearms Registry.
“The Minister has assured South Africans that no stone will be left unturned during this investigation, reiterating that there would be no ‘untouchables’ and ‘no-go areas’ for the Committee,” said Mnisi, adding that Mthethwa expected the Committee to ‘dig deep’ in order to uncover any hidden fraud and corruption perpetrated by firearm dealers, training institutions or members of the SAPS. – SAnews.gov.za
