SAPS says it is working to clear firearm application backlog

SAPS management says it wants to reassure firearm licence applicants that it is dealing with the backlog in the processing of applications.

In a statement released on Thursday, SAPS confirmed there is a build-up at the Central Firearm Registry (CFR) resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Usual 90-day turnaround being hampered

“Like most businesses in the country, the CFR [has suffered] a setback as a result of the virus, which has hampered its performance in delivering on the agreed 90-day turnaround time for licence applications,” said spokesperson Colonel Brenda Muridili.

“Compounding this is the influx of reapplications of firearm licences made during the previous firearm amnesty period, as well as the current one. [These are] over and above the new applications.”

Muridili said that since the lockdown had moved to Level 2, mechanisms had been put in place which were impossible to implement during the previous lockdown levels. These would help to alleviate the current backlog.

Turnaround benchmark now up to 120 days

“Applicants are urged to be patient, as SAPS is reviewing a turnaround time to finalise applications from 90 to 120 working days,” she added.

“In the meantime, the working hours of employees at the CFR is also being increased to ensure effective and efficient service delivery in this regard.”

Management of the Central Firearm Registry, with the support of the Divisional Commissioner of Visible Policing, Lieutenant General Moeketsi Sempe, is continuously reviewing measures that can be put in place to mitigate the delays, the statement added.

Applicants who have enquiries can call the FLASH Call Centre: ‪‪012 353 6111, or email cfrenquiry@saps.gov.za

New amnesty period started on 1 August

The government announced on 1 August that a new firearm amnesty period will be in operation until 31 January 2021.

As part of this process, members of the public may either hand in unwanted and unlicensed firearms and ammunition for destruction, or they can apply for renewal of a competency certificate and a valid licence.

The amnesty does not apply to for firearms used to commit a crime.