8000 MISSING FIREARMS

Since 2004 when the new Firearms Control Act was instigated the number of illegal firearms has been reduced by at least 24%.

Now we are hearing that 8000 guns are unaccounted for in the police service and that over 100 retired police officers have still to return their service pistols.
It is essential the at the police put strict controls in place where officers are each accountable for their firearms and that the same penalties apply for those that are lost or stolen as apply to the public. 
The Police need to set an example of adhering to proper gun control and to set an example of firearm safety and responsibility if they expect the community to do the same. 
These lost or stolen firearms have now become illegal firearms and there has been such an escalation in gun violence where schools and churches are now targeted that it is unthinkable that the very guns used by the police to defend us may be being used against us. 
Further to the above any policeman retiring or leaving the force should hand in his firearm and ammunition prior to leaving the police premises and all these items need to be recorded and witnessed as proof that this has been done.
We support the police in their work and look to help at every opportunity but the figure of 8000 missing guns is totally unacceptable and cannot be allowed to continue.