Colombia’s government said Tuesday it will propose new legislation on gun control after newly inaugurated Bogota mayor Gustavo Petro revived the discussion on banning the carrying of weapons to reduce urban crime.
According to Francisco Lloreda, the government adviser on citizen security, the administration of Juan Manuel Santos will propose a bill that will allow the carrying of weapons only in “exceptional” cases and raise the requirements to be able to buy a weapon.
“This project aims to raise the requirements for the carrying of weapons, primarily weapons that should be in the hands of the state, and if not, by those companies specialized in security issues,” Lloreda told Caracol Radio.
The government also plans to improve the registration of firearms.
Nevertheless, the government adviser pointed out that to significantly reduce crime and crime-related deaths “this measure is not the cure, because the majority of homicides are committed with homemade, crafted or illegal weapons. The issue must be discussed clearly and without creating false expectations,” said Lloreda.
The discussion on gun control was revived when Petro in his inaugural speech Sunday said he would ban the carrying of weapons, but was reminded that not he, but the local army brigade has the legal authority to decree a ban on carrying weapons.