The Ministry said in a statement that the decision is one of the steps that have been taken to tackle unlicensed weapons that citizens possess.

The Ministry also stated that within the same frame they will open a “modern” dedicated market for firearms which will be directly monitored by the Security forces (Asayish) and the government.

Throughout 2022, the KRG has made several attempts to eradicate unlicensed guns as the Region witnessed a surge in gun crimes, Esta Media Network reported.

A while back, in June, Prime Minister Masrour Barzani ordered the shutting down of all markets selling firearms as well as the confiscation of unlicensed weapons.

Moreover, in October, The Ministry announced one week-long campaign to confiscate unlicensed weapons.

Despite decisions to prosecute people with unregistered weapons, the use of firearms have increased in the Region. Weapons are often used to settle personal or tribal disputes.

Reporter's code: 50101