SA Parliamantary Committee passes Dangerous Weapons Bill

A bill giving police more power against the carrying of dangerous weapons in public was adopted by Parliament's portfolio committee on police on Tuesday.

The Dangerous Weapons Bill was tweaked after it first came to the committee for consideration last month.

Sporting bodies and collectors complained they would be arrested while travelling to and from events, and could be prosecuted for having paintguns, airguns or antique rifles, guns, and swords in their possession.

As the bill now stands, the act will not apply to the:

- Possession of dangerous weapons in pursuit of any lawful employment, duty or activity;

- Possession of dangerous weapons during participation in any religious or cultural activities, or lawful sport, recreation, or entertainments; and;

- Legitimate collection, display or exhibition of weapons.

Police officers will be given the discretion to decide whether there is a reasonable suspicion a weapon could be used for unlawful purposes.

Police would be able to crack down on protesters brandishing firearms, bricks, glass bottles, spears, or any object which could be used to harm someone or damage property.

Last month, Police Minister Nathi Mthethwa said the bill would be key to helping the police in their duties, while policing the increasing number of violent protests which had plagued the country in recent years.

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