An estimated 12 000 fireams were lost or stolen throughout Mzansi during the 2009/2010 financial year – says Police Minister Nathi Mthethwa

Image – timeslive.co.za

The minister says of this figure – close to 3 400 of the firearms were registered under the South African Police Service devision – whilst the rest belonged to civilians.

The department has since recovered 1 200 police firearms - and 4 000 civilian firearms.

During Mzansi’s gun amnesty period in 2004/2005 – an estimated 140 000 were handed in – whilst 32 000 guns were handed in during the amnesty period from January to April this year.

The Minister’s Spokeperson – Zweli Mnisi says police officials and the public should take responsibility for their weapons.