National Police Agency Operates 'First Voluntary Report Period for Illegal Weapons' Throughout April

Operation of the '1st Voluntary Report Period for Illegal Weapons' in April

The National Police Agency announced that, in order to prevent terrorism and crimes caused by illegal weapons, it will operate the '1st Voluntary Report Period for Illegal Weapons' jointly with the Ministry of National Defense and the Ministry of the Interior and Safety from the 3rd to the 30th of this month.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

The targets include firearms possessed without permission or whose possession permits have been revoked, explosives such as gunpowder, explosives, live ammunition, shells, edged weapons, spray devices, electronic shockers, crossbows, and others.

If reported within the reporting period, criminal and administrative liabilities will, in principle, be exempted. However, if the individual wishes to retain possession, permission will be granted after verification procedures such as checking disqualification reasons.

The reporting method is for the individual or a proxy to visit the nearest police station, district office, police substation, or military unit where a reporting office is established and submit the illegal weapons. If it is difficult to submit within the period due to unavoidable circumstances, prior reporting by phone or mail is allowed, followed by submission of the actual items.

According to the Firearms and Ammunition Control Act, manufacturing, selling, or possessing illegal weapons can result in imprisonment for not less than 3 years and not more than 15 years, or a fine of not less than 30 million won and not more than 100 million won.

An official from the National Police Agency stated, "Through the voluntary reporting period, we will eradicate illegal weapons that cause social instability, continuously strive to prevent firearm accidents, and ensure safety."