Military-style semi-automatic assault rifles are banned in New Zealand under new laws following the Christchurch mosque attack
Military-style semi-automatic assault rifles have been banned in New Zealand under new laws following the Christchurch mosque attack.
New Zealand’s prime minister Jacinda Ardern announced the ban on Thursday afternoon, following the attack that killed 50 at two mosques in the city on Friday.
More than 70,000 people called for the guns to be banned in a petition to the government.
New Zealand’s prime minister Jacinda Ardern announced the ban on Thursday afternoon, following the attack that killed 50 at two mosques in the city on Friday
‘On March 15 our history changed forever. Now, our laws will too. We are announcing action today on behalf of all New Zealanders to strengthen our gun laws and make our country a safer place,’ Ms Ardern said.
‘Cabinet agreed to overhaul the law when it met on Monday, 72 hours after the horrific terrorism act in Christchurch.
‘Now, six days after this attack, we are announcing a ban on all military style semi-automatics and assault rifles in New Zealand.
‘Related parts used to convert these guns into MSSAs are also being banned, along with all high-capacity magazines.’
The prime minister added that an amnesty would be held to allow people to hand in the banned weapons, as well as a buyback scheme.
Police and the military, as well as pest control workers and some sportsmen and women, will be granted exemptions from the law.
‘To owners who have legitimate uses for their guns, I want to reiterate that the actions being announced today are not because of you, and are not directed at you. Our actions, on behalf of all New Zealanders, are directed at making sure this never happens again,’ Ms Ardern added.
More to come.