Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has officially approved the Punjab Surrender of Illicit Arms Act 2026. This landmark legislation is the first of its kind in the province, designed to systematically eliminate the culture of illegal weaponry and curb firearm-related crimes.

Key Provisions of the Act The new law provides a rigorous framework for the regulation, possession, and display of firearms:

• Mandatory Surrender: All holders of illicit (unlicensed) weapons are required to surrender them to the Civil Coordination Department (CCD).
• Special Permits for Display: Citizens who wish to keep firearms at home specifically for display purposes must now obtain a special permit.
• Justification for Licenses: Existing licensed firearm owners are no longer exempt from scrutiny; they must now provide a valid justification for possessing their weapons.
• Strict Penalties: The Act outlines severe legal consequences and penalties for individuals who fail to surrender illegal arms within the timeframe specified by the government.

Punjab government to launch a province wide crackdown on illegal weapons. pic.twitter.com/98t2iDIqxm

— PMLN (@pmln_org) March 11, 2026

Implementation and Enforcement The Civil Coordination Department (CCD) has been designated as the primary authority responsible for enforcing the Act. Their mandate includes overseeing the collection of weapons, managing registrations, and monitoring firearm activity across the province to ensure compliance with the new regulations.