Chapter 20

NEGLIGENT LOSS OF FIREARM

The negligent loss of a firearm refers to the loss of a firearm through irresponsible action by the licenced owner, and non-compliance with licence conditions.



Between 1996 and 1998, the negligent loss of a firearm in South Africa increased from 4 729 to 6 231 reported incidents annually.



In this research, conclusions are drawn from six incidents analysed, which comprised 0.8% of the docket sample. It should be noted that the sample is too small to provide valid conclusions, but the information can be used for its illustrative value.



Police detection of the negligent loss of a firearm is low. It was found that many negligent losses of firearms are undetected. Out of the six incidents, a fine of less than R1 000 was imposed in three cases.



In the six cases of the negligent loss of a firearm, 19 people were involved: six offenders and 13 victims. Once more, this is an example where the distinction between victims and offenders is blurred.



In the six cases of the negligent loss of a firearm, 13 firearms were involved.