The New Nation - Internet Edition

BSS, Dhaka

The government has instructed all owners of licensed pistol, revolver and ammunition to deposit their firearms with the nearest police stations from November 20 to December 3.

The government has taken the decision under section 26 of Arms Act of 1878 to prevent misuse of the firearms and maintain law and order for holding the general and upazila elections peacefully, an official handout said here today.

The deposited firearms and ammunition will be kept at the respective police stations till January 5, 2009, it said.

Besides, ban has also been imposed on carrying other licensed firearms from December 4, 2008 to January 5, 2009.

Stern action would be taken under the Arms Act for violation of the order.

However, the ban would not be applicable to the members of the law enforcing agencies and security personnel of different government, semi-government, private organizations, financial institutes and enterprises, the handout added.