The Supreme Council of the Armed Forces (SCAF) issued a message to Egyptians Friday, telling them to turn in their illegal weapons or face military prosecution. The move is intended to combat the increase in arms smuggling operations and weapon possession that resulted from the revolution that deposed former President Hosni Mubarak.
In a statement published by the Middle East News Agency, SCAF set a 30 June deadline for civilians to hand over their weapons to the nearest military unit or military police agency without facing legal repercussions.
The SCAF said that after the deadline, any individual who is found in possession of any weapons (as well as accomplices or anyone with prior knowledge of the individual’s possession) will be referred to military courts.
The military council also urged citizens to promptly notify civilian or military police stations of any information that would help in locating individuals who possess weapons, indicating that those who cooperate will be offered a reward.
Media reports indicate an increase in arms smuggling operations from neighboring countries after the revolution, as well as an increase in black market weapon sales.
According to the reports, more Egyptians are purchasing personal weapons in light of the deteriorating security conditions in some neighborhoods and the reduced police presence.
Translated from the Arabic Edition
