The National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NACSA) has issued a firm warning that from January 30, anyone found in possession of an unregistered or illegal firearm will face arrest and prosecution as security agencies step up nationwide enforcement.

The caution follows the Interior Minister’s decision to grant a final two-week extension to the Gun Amnesty Programme (GAP), which NACSA describes as a last chance for voluntary compliance before the law is fully enforced.

The extended amnesty runs from January 16 to January 30, 2026, building on what the Commission says has been a positive response since the programme was first launched on December 1, 2025.

The initial phase was originally scheduled to end on January 15, 2026.

NACSA explained that the additional period is intended to reach residents in remote and underserved communities, giving them the opportunity to surrender or register prohibited or unlicensed firearms without being questioned, detained, or prosecuted.

The Commission, however, stressed that no further extensions will be granted and that enforcement will begin immediately once the deadline passes.

In a statement, NACSA cautioned that any individual found with an illicit or unregistered firearm after January 30 will be dealt with strictly in line with existing laws, as security agencies intensify their operations across the country.

NACSA also appealed to traditional rulers, religious bodies, community leaders, civil society groups and the media to help mobilise the public to take advantage of the remaining days of the amnesty.

Emphasising the broader goal of public safety, the Commission urged citizens to act promptly, noting that the success of the programme is critical to efforts to reduce the proliferation of illegal weapons and promote peace nationwide.