Ministry of Defense revokes firearm licenses for pistols and revolvers

COLOMBO (News 1st): The Ministry of Defense has taken a decision to temporarily revoke the firearm license issued for pistols and revolvers. According to Defense Secretary Hemasiri Fernando, all firearms should be presented to the Defense Ministry in order to regain the licenses. He stated that 4,700 unauthorized 9 mm pistols and revolvers have been licensed. However, he pointed out that there are no records or data regarding these firearms or their owners. "This is a very dangerous situation," he added. According to the Defense Secretary, some individuals possess 14-15 pistols to their name. Hemasiri Fernando stated: "All these permits will be temporarily suspended and all these weapons will be brought to the ministry, everyone will then have to show their permits and obtain these weapons. But the Intelligence units will collect information about those who possessed these weapons." He also revealed that out of 4,700 permits issued, only 1000 individuals are carrying the permitted weapon - while the others only have the permit in hand. "The Intelligence information also revealed that some of these weapons are circulating in the hands of underworld individuals who pay the permit-holders up to Rs. 50,000 per day to use them. This is an extremely dangerous situation." said Hemasiri Fernando