The Ministry of Defence in Sri Lanka has announced that approximately 85% of license holders have returned firearms and ammunition issued to them for personal protection, following its directive to recall all such weapons by November 21, 2024. The recall is part of a nationwide initiative to conduct a quantitative review and ensure stricter regulation of firearms.
License holders wishing to retain their firearms were instructed to submit appeals to the Ministry of Defence by October 30, 2024, explaining their requirements. These appeals must be accompanied by relevant supporting documents and the firearms themselves for inspection. Moving forward, the Ministry has decided that only one firearm per person will be issued, subject to approval based on intelligence reports. The review process is scheduled to be completed by January 20, 2025, with all firearms required to be submitted for inspection before that date.
In addition to personal firearms, the Ministry has directed that all firearms and ammunition issued by the Sri Lanka Army and Police in the past be returned by December 31, 2024. Civilians in possession of these firearms are required to hand them over to the nearest police stations.
The Ministry has warned that legal action will be taken under the Firearm Ordinance No. 33 of 1916 against license holders who fail to comply with these directives. The initiative is part of the government’s effort to reduce firearm misuse in civil society and ensure a safer environment for all citizens.
