PEOPLE in possession of illegal firearms in the country have been given their final chance to surrender them without prosecution.

This is made possible through the DCCG, RSIPF, RAMSI and other stakeholders to the initiative which resulted in the launching of the three weeks’ amnesty programme yesterday.

Minister for National Unity, Reconciliation and Peace, Hon Samson Maneka, said a gun-free Solomon Islands is very significant.

Saying it’s another opportunity for any Solomon Islander who possesses weapons to surrender to the police if he or she has the heart and love for the nation.

He said DCCG’s policies have a vision in its policy mandate and would like to ensure Solomon Islands is free of any illegal weapons, so that people can live in peaceful co-existence that leads to advancement and fostering of national unity and healing.

Mr Maneka said the programme to collect illegal weapons and amnesty for the next three weeks is another policy initiative of the DCCG aiming at securing meaningful peace that will pave a roadmap for peace and prosperity as people aspired.

“I am grateful to the government ministries, SIPCRRA and RAMSI for initiating and implementing this programme.

“I would like to sincerely acknowledge the wisdom of SIPCRRA leaders in willingly participating in this programme despite the very limited financial and logistical support.

“I would like to say that this is our home, Solomon Islands is our home. The future of Solomon Islands is in our hands.

“We have the power to make or break a secure, peaceful and prosperous Solomon Islands,” he said.

Mr Maneka also acknowledged RAMSI and the Participating Police Force (PPF) for their generous support and participation in this programme.

He said their support has indeed showed that they are a true friend, and are surely helping a friend in need.

However, Mr Maneka said the next three weeks programme is a test of collaboration between SIPCRRA members and the RSIPF in promoting a gun-free culture and peaceful co-existence for the country.

“The onus is on those illegally possessing gun or any weapon to willingly surrender.

“I firmly believe that from this disarmament and amnesty programme our nation will be a safe place and nation,” he said.

Mr Maneka said this programme is indeed another chance of success for the country, thus it needs everyone’s cooperation.