ALARMED BUT NOT DISCOURAGED
By: Eirenei Ariu Toleafoa
56 illegal firearms and unregistered weapons not including ammunition are in Police possession as of this month as the 3rd Gun Amnesty Appeal by the Ministry of Police and Prisons continue until December this year.
Launched in October, Commissioner Fuiavailili Egon Keil at a press conference acknowledged the public response and noted that although the illegal weapons appears old and rusty, they can still kill.
As an encouragement, law authorities are also paying a $100 tala food voucher for any person who voluntarily surrenders any illegal firearm or unregistered weapon.
The voucher is for groceries and not for alcohol or other necessities.
The Commissioner says that while he is alarmed with the number of illegal weapons surrendered at this stage, Police far from being discouraged to continue with their campaign for a “Safe Samoa” via the Gun Amnesty appeal.
“We are appealing to our people who have dangerous illegal firearms and ammunitions in their possession to hand them over and no questions asked or charges file but instead you will receive a $100 tala food voucher for your honesty,” elaborated the Commissioner
He added that if transport is needed, police will facilitate by uplifting the illegal firearms, weapons and ammunition, again without any repercussion.
“The illegal firearms will be destroyed eliminating any future danger to our people,” he reassured.
Of the 56 firearms surrendered, six were turned in from Savaii.
The present Gun Amnesty ends of New Year’s Eve.
