NATIONAL: The South African Police Service (SAPS) destroyed almost 12 000 firearms and parts on Thursday, 9 July 2026.

July 9 also marks the International Day for the Destruction of Small Arms and Light Weapons as declared by the United Nations.

According to SAPS 11 859 firearms are being destroyed during a process taking place in Gauteng today, of which 9 596 are handguns,1 102 rifles and 798 shotguns.

SAPs said 33% of the firearms and firearm parts that are being destroyed were seized during policing operations across the country. Voluntary surrenders make up 61%, amnesty firearms 4.54% and violence against women and children 1.22%.

SAPS have destroyed 317 811 firearms in the last seven years.

Today marks the first firearm destruction process for the 2026/2027 financial year.