Unlicensed Firearm Possession and Legal Penalties (Updated Legislation for 2025)

9935 Viewing 15 March 2025, 23:35

Unlicensed Firearm Possession and Legal Penalties (Updated Legislation for 2025)

1. Definition and Scope of the Crime

Unlicensed firearm possession is regulated under Law No. 6136 on Firearms, Knives, and Other Tools. This crime occurs when individuals acquire, possess, or carry firearms without obtaining the necessary permits from the relevant authorities.

Individuals with a firearm possession license can only store their firearms in the locations specified in their license. However, taking or carrying this firearm outside the designated location constitutes a crime. Carrying a firearm without a carry license is subject to criminal penalties.

2. Updated Legal Penalties for 2025

As of 2025, penalties for unlicensed firearm possession have been increased to prevent illegal firearm ownership and enhance public safety. The updated penalties are as follows:

Basic Penalty: Individuals found possessing, carrying, or purchasing an unlicensed firearm can be sentenced to imprisonment ranging from 2 to 4 years and fined between 100 and 500 judicial penalty days.
Aggravated Circumstances: If the firearm involved is fully automatic, military-grade, or equipped with a silencer, or if a significant quantity of firearms or ammunition is involved, the penalty increases to imprisonment ranging from 5 to 8 years and a fine between 500 and 5000 judicial penalty days.

3. Crime of Ammunition Possession and Carrying

Possessing unlicensed ammunition is also considered a crime, similar to the possession of unlicensed firearms. The penalties vary based on the quantity of ammunition:

Small Amount (Up to 50 rounds): Up to 6 months of imprisonment and a fine of up to 100 judicial penalty days.
Moderate Amount (51-5000 rounds): Imprisonment ranging from 1 to 3 years and a fine of 30 to 100 judicial penalty days.
Large Amount (5001 rounds and above): Imprisonment ranging from 5 to 8 years and a fine between 500 and 5000 judicial penalty days.

4. Legal Process and Judicial Aspects

Complaint and Settlement: The crime of unlicensed firearm possession is prosecuted ex officio and is not subject to complaint or settlement.
Statute of Limitations: The statute of limitations for this crime is 8 years.
Court Proceedings: Trials are conducted in criminal courts of first instance.
Postponement of the Announcement of the Verdict (HAGB): Courts may decide to postpone the announcement of the verdict depending on the offender’s situation and the nature of the crime.

5. Conclusion and Evaluation

The updated legislation for 2025 has significantly increased the penalties for unlicensed firearm possession to prevent this crime and enhance public safety. It is crucial for individuals to comply with legal regulations and avoid possessing unlicensed firearms. Authorities are implementing stricter inspections and making firearm acquisition procedures more rigorous