The South African Police Service has destroyed 11 859 firearms and firearm parts as part of its campaign to remove illegal weapons from circulation.

The destruction took place in Gauteng on Wednesday.

SAPS said the exercise was part of ongoing efforts to fight violent crime and strengthen public safety.

It was the first firearm destruction process of the 2026/27 financial year.

The event also coincided with the United Nations’ International Day for the Destruction of Small Arms and Light Weapons, observed annually on 9 July.

Handguns make up majority

According to SAPS, handguns made up most of the firearms destroyed.

Police said 9 596 pistols were destroyed, accounting for 81% of the total.

They were followed by 1 102 rifles, which made up 9%.

A further 798 shotguns were destroyed, accounting for 6.73%.

The remaining 363 items were combinations of firearms and firearm parts.

Weapons seized and surrendered

SAPS said the firearms came from policing operations across the country and were later forfeited to the State.

Others were surrendered voluntarily.

Police said voluntary surrenders accounted for the largest share, making up 61% of the total.

Firearms seized through police operations made up 33%.

Weapons handed in during firearm amnesty periods accounted for 4.54%.

A further 1.22% were linked to cases involving violence against women and children.

Long-running crackdown

SAPS said it has destroyed 317 811 firearms over the past seven years.

The police service said firearm destruction remains a key strategy in preventing weapons from being used in criminal activity.

Deputy Police Minister Dr Polly Boshielo officiated at the destruction process.

She was joined by Divisional Commissioner for Visible Policing and Operations Lieutenant General Maropeng Mamothethi.

Other senior SAPS officials also attended, including Head of Firearms Compliance and Enforcement Brigadier Simon Bopape and Acting Component Head for Firearm, Liquor and Second-Hand Goods Brigadier Nonhlanhla Sikhakhane.

SAPS said the removal of illegal firearms remains central to reducing violent crime and protecting communities.