Politicians and officials ordered to hand over firearms issued to them by December 30

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya   

The Ministry of Defence has issued a directive to former Members of Parliament, Members of Provincial Councils, political party leaders, and former government officials to return any firearms issued to them by the Police or Army.   
The firearms, including pistols and revolvers, were originally provided for personal protection and must be surrendered to the nearest police station by December 30, this year.  

The Ministry said that the Police maintains a record of those who were issued firearms. Police OICs have been instructed to verify the names on this list and retrieve any outstanding firearms.   

The Ministry has called for cooperation with these inquiries to ensure the process is completed smoothly and to uphold law and order.   

If any individuals have already returned their firearms, the Ministry requests that supporting documentation be provided to the police to facilitate the verification process.