By GEORGINA MICHAEL
The 21-days National Firearms Amnesty and Buyback program will begin on Friday, 27 February 2026, throughout the country, says Police Minister Sir John Pundari.
He announced this during the Royal PNG Constabulary’s (RPNGC) annual management planning workshop in Port Moresby last week.
“This is purposely to get rid of illegal firearms in our communities and restore peace, safety and confidence in the rule of law in the country,” Sir John said.
“The Government is investing in this program to reduce the prevalence of illegal firearms in our communities, support peace building and conflict resolution incentives, enhance the capacity of police to enforce law and order and protect the lives, properties and the future of our children.
“Illegal firearms have fueled violence, tribal conflicts and criminal activities in the country for far too long and it is about time we put an end to this.”
The Police Minister said the firearms amnesty and buyback program was an opportunity for citizens to voluntarily surrender illegally firearms without being penalized.
Sir John warned people who failed to surrender their illegal firearms that they faced severe penalties under the Firearm Act.
Sir Pundari also urged citizens, community and church leaders, and leaders at all levels of government to support the program and assist with the surrender of illegal firearms.
“Guns are destroying our communities, if we remove them, our lives will be transformed. Hence, it’s a life changing opportunity for the nation. This amnesty will be effective as off the 27February 2026 and will last for the next 21 days,” Sir John said.