Are Guns Legal in Pakistan?
In Pakistan, the possession and use of firearms is regulated under the Pakistan Arms Ordinance of 1965. Civilians are allowed to own guns, but the process of obtaining a license can be complicated and lengthy. Furthermore, there are restrictions on the types of firearms that can be owned, as well as rules regarding their use and transportation.
How Can One Obtain a Firearm License in Pakistan?
To obtain a firearm license in Pakistan, applicants must follow a series of steps:
- Obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the local police station.
- Submit the NOC, along with an application form, passport-sized photographs, and copies of the applicant’s National Identity Card (NIC) to the District Coordination Officer (DCO).
- Pay the required fee and submit the receipt to the DCO office.
- Wait for the application to be processed, which can take several months.
- If the application is approved, the applicant will receive a license card and can purchase a firearm from a licensed dealer.
It is important to note that licenses are issued on a provincial basis, and applicants must apply in the province where they reside. Additionally, licenses are typically only valid for specific types of firearms, and separate licenses are required for different categories of guns.
What Are the Laws, Penalties, and Law Enforcement Practices Regarding Firearms in Pakistan?
The Pakistan Arms Ordinance of 1965 outlines the laws and penalties related to firearms in Pakistan. Some key points include:
- Illegal possession of firearms can result in imprisonment of up to seven years and/or a fine.
- Carrying a firearm without a valid license can result in imprisonment of up to three years and/or a fine.
- Using a firearm in the commission of a crime can result in enhanced penalties, including the death penalty in some cases.
- Law enforcement agencies have the authority to search individuals and vehicles for firearms without a warrant.
Despite these laws, illegal firearms are prevalent in Pakistan, and enforcement of gun regulations can be inconsistent.
What Is the Public Opinion on Guns and Firearms in Pakistan?
Public opinion on guns and firearms in Pakistan is divided, with some people supporting stricter gun control measures and others advocating for the right to bear arms for self-defense and security purposes. The debate over gun control has been fueled by incidents of gun violence, terrorism, and political instability in the country.
What Kind of Guns Can Be Found in Pakistan?
A wide variety of firearms can be found in Pakistan, including:
- Handguns (pistols and revolvers)
- Rifles (bolt-action, semi-automatic, and automatic)
- Shotguns
- Submachine guns and machine guns (mostly in the possession of law enforcement and military personnel)
Locally produced firearms are common, particularly in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, where the city of Darra Adam Khel is known for its gun manufacturing industry.
What Are the Rules Regarding Air Rifles and Airsoft Guns in Pakistan?
Air rifles and airsoft guns are not considered firearms under Pakistani law and do not require a license to own. However, they are subject to certain restrictions, such as:
- Air rifles and airsoft guns must have a muzzle energy of less than 20 joules.
- It is illegal to carry an air rifle or airsoft gun in a public place without a reasonable excuse.
What Are the Firearm Ownership Rates and Other Gun Statistics in Pakistan?
According to the Small Arms Survey, there are approximately 20 million privately owned firearms in Pakistan, with an estimated ownership rate of 11.6 guns per 100 residents. However, these figures may not be entirely accurate due to the prevalence of unregistered and illegal firearms in the country.
What Are the Government Laws and Links Related to Firearms in Pakistan?
Key government resources related to firearms in Pakistan include:
- Punjab Police
- Sindh Police
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police
- Balochistan Police
- Ministry of Interior
For more information on the Pakistan Arms Ordinance of 1965, consult the National Assembly of Pakistan.