Papua New Guinea Launches National Gun Amnesty Amid Rising Violence

Papua New Guinea (PNG) has initiated a national gun amnesty and buyback scheme aimed at removing illegal firearms from circulation, particularly in the violence-prone Highlands region. The program commenced on February 27, 2026, and is set to continue until late August. Police Minister Sir John Pundari emphasized that this initiative is not merely a police operation but a "national movement for peace." Citizens are encouraged to voluntarily surrender illegal weapons without facing penalties, in exchange for cash payments, although the specific amounts offered will vary by province.

The Guardian

The urgency of this amnesty stems from escalating violence and tribal conflicts in PNG, exacerbated by the availability of high-powered firearms and explosives. A report by former PNG Defence Force Commander Jerry Singirok, prepared for the United Nations in 2025, estimates that approximately 100,000 illegal guns are present in the country, with only about 12% of small arms being legally registered. Prime Minister James Marape highlighted the destructive impact of these weapons, stating that they have been used to instill fear and chaos within communities, undermining family structures and societal stability.

The Guardian

The PNG government aims to clear the Highlands of firearms ahead of the national elections scheduled for 2027, a period historically marked by increased violence. Marape warned of stringent penalties for individuals who do not surrender their firearms during the amnesty, stating, "We will embrace you during the amnesty period, but once it ends, enforcement will be firm and uncompromising." This initiative is part of a broader strategy to restore law and order, which includes tougher penalties for illegal gun possession.

The Guardian

Despite the government's efforts, the gun buyback program has faced criticism. Deputy Opposition Leader Keith Iduhu argued that exchanging illegal firearms for business funding undermines existing crime laws and called for structural reforms to address the firearms crisis. Singirok echoed this sentiment, cautioning that while the amnesty is a significant step, it is merely a temporary solution. He stressed the need for lasting reforms in legislation and enforcement to ensure the safety of communities.

The Guardian

As tensions remain high in the Highlands, the success of the gun amnesty will depend on continued engagement with tribal leaders, churches, and community groups. Pundari noted the importance of stabilizing the region, not only for local communities but also for the broader economic activities along the Highlands Highway corridor, which connects the Highlands to the coastal city of Lae. The government's approach will be closely monitored as it seeks to balance immediate peace efforts with long-term solutions to the firearms crisis.

The Guardian

• “If this program prevents even one massacre, it is not a reward, it is a strategic investment in human life,” — Sir John Pundari, Police Minister

The Guardian

• “This is destroying families, villages and the future of our people.” — James Marape, Prime Minister

The Guardian

• “Lasting reforms in legislation, enforcement, and oversight are necessary to ensure that firearms do not continue to endanger communities.” — Jerry Singirok, Former PNG Defence Force Commander

The Guardian