JOHANESBURG - There has been an over 60 percent increase in the application of gun licenses in South Africa.
According to the latest Police statistics, in 2024/2025, there were 166,000 gun license applications. The highest number ever seen in the country.
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As more South Africans arm themselves, Gun Free South Africa is sounding alarm bells.
Executive Director Stanley Maphosa said South Africans have become more fearful in the last five years.
The July 2021 unrest, in particular, sparked fears in which residents felt they had to protect themselves in fear of widespread violence breaking out.
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"There is also uncertainty in the firearm reforms and owners regularising their ownership, so it is a variety of factors lending to the increase," he said.