The South African Government Gazette (Vol. 719, No. 52697, dated 19 May 2025) outlines proposed measures to address the importation of blank guns. This move is in response to concerns about the increasing misuse of these devices in criminal activities.
What Are Blank Guns?
Blank guns are imitation firearms designed to fire non-lethal rounds or blanks. While they are commonly used for legitimate purposes such as law enforcement and military training, sports signalling, and film production, their resemblance to real firearms poses significant challenges. This similarity, combined with their ease of acquisition and potential for illegal modification, has raised concerns about their role in criminal activities.
Why the Need for Regulation?
The Gazette emphasises the risks associated with blank guns. Their realistic appearance makes them effective tools for intimidation, especially in crimes like robberies or hijackings. Current regulations under the Firearms Control Act do not fully cover blank guns, allowing them to be purchased and carried without restrictions. Some models can even be modified to fire live ammunition, transforming them into lethal weapons. These factors have contributed to their increasing use in crimes, necessitating immediate regulatory action.
Proposed Measures
To address these concerns, the government is considering two main approaches: an outright ban on the importation of blank guns or a permit-based system with stringent conditions. The permit system would require importers to provide proof of identity and a clear declaration of the intended use, limited to legitimate activities like police training or film production. Models that are easily modifiable into live firearms would be prohibited. To ensure compliance, authorities would conduct regular inspections and audits of importers and their facilities.