Papua New Guinea offers cash for guns as amnesty opens to combat escalating tribal violence

"Citizens can voluntarily surrender illegal weapons without penalty in exchange for cash payments under the buyback scheme, Pundari said. The government did not specify how much it will pay for illegal weapons but said it will vary from province to province. In some cases, it may include cash incentives and support provided to people who wish to start agriculture businesses."

"A report by the former Papua New Guinea defence force commander Jerry Singirok, prepared for the UN in 2025, estimates there are about 100,000 illegal guns in PNG. Only about 12% of small arms in PNG are legally licensed and registered, according to a 2025 UNDP report."

"Most of these guns were paid for by people outside the communities and handed to young men to cause fear and chaos, the prime minister, James Marape, said in a statement in January. This is destroying families, villages and the future of our people."

Papua New Guinea implemented a national gun amnesty and buyback program running from February through August to address escalating violence and tribal conflicts in the Highlands region. Citizens can voluntarily surrender illegal weapons without penalty in exchange for cash payments, with compensation varying by province and potentially including agricultural business support. An estimated 100,000 illegal guns circulate in PNG, with only 12% of small arms legally licensed and registered. The government framed the amnesty as a strategic investment in human life while simultaneously implementing tougher penalties for illegal gun possession. Prime Minister James Marape warned of firm enforcement after the amnesty period ends, emphasizing that illegal weapons distributed to young men are destroying families and communities.

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