When you’re ready to clear up your criminal record and remove the negative mark from your name, an amnesty in South Africa may be right for you. An amnesty means that when you’re charged with or convicted of a crime, it won’t show up on your criminal record after you’ve paid your fine and completed other requirements. Even if you aren’t convicted of the crime, you can apply to have it expunged from your record, which will make it as though the incident never happened at all.
Do you need to hand over a firearm?
The South African Police Service (SAPS) will not take firearms for safekeeping during an Amnesty period. The SAPS does not want to be seen as endorsing illegal firearms possession. It is important to note that, if you hand over a firearm at any other time, it may be confiscated and you may face criminal charges.
What if I own ammunition?
South Africa has a strict gun control policy that bans all citizens from owning firearms except for those who have a license to do so. If you were to own ammunition, then you are breaking this law and could be fined up to R10 000 or spend 10 years in prison.
What if I have an unlicensed firearm?
If you have an unlicensed firearm, the process of surrendering it is straightforward. Once you apply for an amnesty permit, a police officer will come to your residence and make arrangements with you on how to hand over your weapon safely. The entire process takes around two weeks and once it’s done, weapons can be handed over at any police station across the country.
What do I need to apply for amnesty?
First, make sure you meet the eligibility requirements. In order to qualify for an amnesty application, you must have committed a crime less than five years ago, and that crime must not be listed on your criminal record. You also need to demonstrate a compelling need for an amnesty. For example, if you are applying because you’re going to college or university and can’t afford tuition without financial aid or if your child needs medical treatment that isn’t available because of your inability to pay for it.
