South Africa has recorded a significant increase in firearm licence applications, with the latest police statistics revealing the highest number of applications ever submitted in a single year.
According to the figures, more than 166,000 firearm licence applications were received during the 2024/2025 financial year, representing an increase of over 60% compared to previous years.
The sharp rise has sparked concern among gun-control advocates, who warn that growing numbers of South Africans are turning to firearms amid heightened fears about safety and security.
The Gun Free South Africa says the trend reflects increasing levels of anxiety among citizens over crime and instability.
Executive Director Stanley Maphosa said South Africans have become increasingly fearful over the past five years, contributing to the surge in firearm licence applications.
Maphosa pointed to the July 2021 unrest as a key factor behind the growing demand for firearms, noting that many residents felt compelled to arm themselves amid concerns about widespread violence and the perceived need for self-protection.
"There is also uncertainty around firearm reforms and firearm owners regularising their ownership, so it is a variety of factors contributing to the increase," he said.
The record number of applications comes as debates continue around firearm regulation, public safety and the role of privately owned firearms in crime prevention.
Gun-control organisations have long argued that increasing civilian access to firearms can heighten the risk of gun-related violence, while firearm owners and advocacy groups maintain that legal gun ownership is an important means of self-defence in a country with high crime levels.
The latest statistics highlight the growing demand for firearm ownership in South Africa and are expected to fuel further discussions on firearm legislation and public safety policy.