Gun owners oppose new law

2004-06-25 21:32

Johannesburg - Firearm owners will seek a court interdict on Wednesday to stop the government from enacting legislation to control the ownership of guns.

SA Gunowners Association spokesperson Martin Hood said on Friday the Firearms Control Act was a threat to the country's security and its citizens.

"We do not want the legislation to be implemented as it will lead to the criminalisation of tens of thousands of gun owners," said Hood.

"The act will also lead to the complete collapse of security, gun dealerships and hunting industries, which collectively amount to billions of rands."

Hood said the association had tried since March to engage the government with queries and concerns arising out of the manner in which the act would be executed.

"Unfortunately, none of these concerns have either been acknowledged or addressed in a meaningful manner."

Hood said that, as a consequence of the breakdown in communication, the association concluded there was no option but to approach the courts.

The interdict would be filed in Pretoria High Court and respondents would be President Thabo Mbeki, Safety and Security Minister Charles Nqakula and the SAPS's national commissioner, Jackie Selebi.

- SAPA