GUN LAWS EXPLAINED

Following the shooting and killing of a suspected burglar in Francistown recently, the Botswana Police Public Relations officer, Assistant Commissioner, Christopher Mbulawa has explained the laws governing ownership of guns in Botswana.

He said it is the police that license the use and sale of rifles and shotguns. These civilian firearms are supposed to be strictly used for hunting purposes only. “We have never licensed anyone to own a pistol or revolver, so it would be illegal to do so. Even our security agents don’t move around with guns. They only carry guns when they suspect that the criminals could be armed. Only the army, wildlife officers, prison wardens and the police are allowed to use pistols, revolvers and sometimes AK 47s”,

“One can not be issued a firearm license for purposes of defending themselves and their business or property,”the Assistant Commissioner explained.
He outlined the criteria used by the police  to determine suitability and eligibility for  firearm licenses as follows:
1 Person should be at least 18 years old.
2.Should have clean criminal record
3.Must be a citizen of Botswana
4.Must be of a stable mind.
In the past, residents who were not citizens could qualify to be issued licences if they satisfied the rest of the above requirements but that has since been revoked.

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