​PNG Opposition Slams Guns Amnesty as “Cash for Criminals”

​PNG Opposition Slams Guns Amnesty as “Cash for Criminals”

Papua New Guinea’s Opposition has criticised the Government’s firearms amnesty and buyback scheme, branding it “cash for criminals” as concerns over the spread of illegal guns continue across the country.

Deputy Opposition Leader Keith Iduhu said the policy risked rewarding offenders rather than strengthening law enforcement efforts to address gun-related violence.

The 21-day programme, set to be launched on Friday, will offer cash incentives to individuals who voluntarily surrender illegal firearms to police without facing prosecution.

Police Minister Sir John Pundari announced the initiative during a recent police gathering, describing it as a key measure to remove illegal weapons from circulation and restore public confidence in law enforcement agencies.

Applying what he referred to as the Eson Framework — “Em Stret, O Nogat?” — Mr Iduhu questioned the ethics of using taxpayer funds to purchase weapons obtained through unlawful means, arguing that such an approach could undermine justice.

“A Government that rewards criminals instead of empowering the police to enforce the law has lost its way,” he said, adding that a just response to illegal firearms should involve upholding the law and prosecuting those responsible for acquiring and using them.

Mr Iduhu also raised concerns about the source of funds for the buyback and warned that financial incentives might be diverted to acquire other illegal items, stressing that any amnesty should complement, not weaken, existing enforcement frameworks.

He further urged Prime Minister James Marape to table and implement the 2005 Gun Control Report by retired Major-General Jerry Singirok, saying the country already had a legal blueprint to address illegal weapons.

Meanwhile, Deputy Police Commissioner Dr Philip Mitna said gun surrender in the Highlands would take time, noting that firearms were often used not only for criminal activities but also for protecting homes, families, clans and tribes amid longstanding tribal conflicts.

“We need a win-win solution that ensures the safety of all our people while they are surrendering firearms,” he said.
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