Punjab Govt Orders Surrender of Illegal Weapons Within 15 Days — New Law Announced
In a bold move to ensure peace and strengthen law enforcement, the Punjab government has ordered all citizens to surrender illegal weapons within 15 days, as part of the newly introduced Punjab Surrender of Illegal Arms Act 2025. The announcement was made during a press conference at the Central Police Office (CPO) Lahore, led by Inspector General (IG) Dr. Usman Anwar, under the directives of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.
A Step Toward a Weapon-Free Punjab
The new initiative underscores the government’s commitment to curbing the spread of illegal arms and maintaining long-term peace across Punjab. According to the IG, the 15-day deadline is designed to give citizens a fair chance to voluntarily hand over unlicensed weapons before strict legal action begins.
He further stated that this campaign reflects Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s vision of a safer, more civilized Punjab where gun culture is replaced by harmony and rule of law.
New Law: Punjab Surrender of Illegal Arms Act 2025
Under the Punjab Surrender of Illegal Arms Act 2025, all residents in possession of unlicensed or illegal firearms must deposit them at designated CCD offices, local police stations, or authorized collection centers within 15 days.
The law aims to eliminate illegal weapons circulation, prevent misuse during personal disputes, and reduce crimes involving unregistered firearms.
The act also mandates a fresh verification process for more than one million licensed weapons, ensuring transparency and updated registration records across the province.
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Strict Penalties for Non-Compliance
Special Secretary Home Fazal Rehman explained that severe punishments await those who fail to comply with the law. Anyone found in possession of illegal weapons after the deadline could face:
- 4 to 14 years in prison
- Fines between Rs. 1 million and Rs. 3 million
He added that law enforcement agencies will not show leniency after the grace period ends.
CCD to Lead the Crackdown
The Counter Crime Directorate (CCD) will lead a province-wide operation to collect illegal arms and monitor compliance. CCD teams, along with local police, will ensure a smooth, transparent, and accessible surrender process for citizens.
Dr. Usman Anwar confirmed that modern weapon scanners are being installed at provincial borders and police checkpoints to detect the transportation of illegal arms. He also announced targeted operations against shooters and groups involved in contract killings and armed violence.
End of “Dalaa Culture” in Punjab
The IG Police declared that this campaign would end the long-standing “dalaa culture”, a term used for widespread gun possession and armed influence in local communities. By removing illegal weapons, the government aims to restore public confidence and strengthen justice in Punjab.
“This is not just a policing initiative; it’s a step toward peace, trust, and lawfulness,” Dr. Usman Anwar stated.
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Full Government Support
The press conference was also attended by Additional IG Sohail Zafar Chattha, Special Secretary Home Fazal Rehman, and senior officers of the Punjab Police. They expressed full support for the initiative and assured that all citizens will have access to secure weapon submission centers throughout the province.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has reportedly directed all relevant departments to coordinate and provide logistical support for the surrender drive.
Modern Security Measures
Along with this major crackdown on illegal weapons, the Punjab Police are deploying high-tech scanners at provincial borders, highways, and city entry points to detect smuggled or concealed firearms. These scanners will make it harder for anyone to transport or trade weapons unlawfully.
Additionally, intelligence-based operations (IBOs) will continue against individuals or groups involved in illegal arms manufacturing and trafficking.
Citizens Urged to Cooperate
Authorities have urged the public to cooperate with police and voluntarily surrender any unlicensed arms before the deadline expires. Citizens have been assured that no questions will be asked during the voluntary submission phase, as long as the weapons are deposited at official centers.
“Every responsible citizen should play their part in making Punjab a peaceful and safe province,” the IG emphasized.
A Vision for a Safer Future
The Punjab arms surrender deadline marks one of the most decisive steps in recent years toward complete disarmament and community security. By enforcing this law, the government aims to:
- Reduce gun violence and accidental shootings
- Strengthen law enforcement credibility
- Promote harmony and safety in both urban and rural areas
The Punjab crackdown on illegal weapons is also being seen as a model initiative that other provinces might follow in the near future.
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Conclusion
The Punjab Govt Orders Surrender of Illegal Weapons campaign reflects a strong political and administrative resolve to make Punjab a safer place for all. With only 15 days to comply, citizens are being reminded that this is their chance to avoid punishment and contribute to peace.
Through the Punjab Surrender of Illegal Arms Act 2025, the province is not only enforcing law and order but also redefining its stance on public safety, responsibility, and civic awareness.
If implemented effectively, this initiative could become a turning point in Pakistan’s fight against illegal arms, setting a precedent for a peaceful, disciplined, and law-abiding Punjab.
