The acting Commissioner and Chairperson for Botswana Police Service (BPS), Phemelo Ramakorwane has emphasised the need for firearm owners to follow the proper procedure for exchanging and transferring firearms.
Speaking at the raffle draw held in Gaborone by the Arms and Ammunition Quota Board the Chairperson mentioned that following the required procedures would promote the accountability of its use thus preventing the firearms from being used in criminal activities.
He furthermore advised owners to keep firearms under lock and key to avoid mishandling that may result in casualties.
The service has also revealed a sharp decline in the number of civilians applying for gun licences in Botswana this year compared to 2021.
“This year, the Botswana Police Service (BPS) received 7 274 applications for licences to acquire shotguns and 6 490 for rifles, compared to 19 528 for shotguns and 15 954 for rifles in the previous year. The results show a decrease in the number of applicants this year,” the BPS said.
Despite receiving thousands of applications, less than 300 people were granted licences after a publicly held raffle system.
On this day, 270 applicants were awarded permits for shotguns and rifles. Each category was awarded 135 permits the BPS said.
According to the Board chairperson Phemelo Ramakorwa, the raffle draw was held in public for accountability and transparency.
