"New" Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000 and the Policing of Firearms at Air and Sea Ports-of-Entry

• NCJ Number: 221571
• Journal: Acta Criminologica Volume: 20 Issue: 4 Dated: 2007 Pages: 19-36
• Author(s): A. Minnaar
• Date Published: 2007
• Length: 18 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Legislation/Policy Analysis
• Language: English
• Country: South Africa
• Note: To access the full text PDF: 1) select the provided link; 2) from the Acta Criminologica Web site, select "Table of Contents"; 3) select the corresponding Volume and Issue (see the NCJRS abstract record for the exact Volume and Issue); 4) scroll the Table of Contents to the exact article; and 5) click on the "full text" icon. Downloaded on February 14, 2008.

Annotation

This article examines the way firearms are moved through ports-of-entry in South Africa and what control measures are in place, as well as some of the shortcomings in these measures.

Abstract

In terms of firearm control measures at ports-of-entry the full implementation of the procedures in the Border Control Procedure Manual and the Firearms Control Act will undoubtedly see to it that very few procedural loopholes exist. Shortcomings observed were more in the realm of manpower, resources (new and updated equipment and technology), and levels of cooperation and information sharing. However, these shortcomings were largely in the areas of imports or exports of firearms and information sharing. The stricter security measures largely ensure that very little smuggling of firearms takes place through the ports-of-entry that were assessed. The one area of universal concern was the reluctance to share information and crime intelligence existing between all agencies at ports-of-entry. In line with the implementation of the South African Police Service’s (SAPS), Border Police: Procedure Manual and related training, the implementation of the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000, and its supporting regulations came into play in 2004 creating an overhaul of the whole process and procedures for firearms control at South African air and sea ports-of-entry. This overhaul was important within the context of the problems that arose around the policing and control of the borders after 1994. Bibliography, notes