Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner, Albert Chalamila, has urged firearm owners to ensure they complete all required permits and legal procedures for firearm ownership before August 30, 2026, announcing that a special firearm inspection operation will begin after the deadline.
Speaking to journalists, Chalamila said some firearm owners who, either through forgetfulness or lack of awareness, have continued to possess firearms without completing the required permit payments should report to the relevant authorities immediately to complete the necessary procedures and verify the legality of their firearm ownership.
He said the move is necessary ahead of the operation, while also urging people who possess firearms unlawfully to voluntarily surrender them to the Police Force or the nearest police station before the operation begins.
Chalamila further urged citizens whose deceased relatives left behind firearms with valid permits to follow the legal procedures by reporting and handing over the firearms to the relevant authorities for guidance on the appropriate steps to be taken.
He also said individuals whose firearms have been stolen should report the matter to the Police and follow the required procedures concerning those firearms, rather than concealing the information or continuing to use them if they are recovered.
The Regional Commissioner stressed that after August 30, 2026, the special operation will commence, and anyone found in unlawful possession of a firearm will face legal action in accordance with the law.
He urged residents to use the remaining time to ensure that their firearm ownership is fully compliant with the law, stressing that the objective is to ensure that all firearms possessed within Dar es Salaam are properly registered and legally recognized.
