New Zealand Prime minister Jacinda Ardern, has announced the ban on semi-automatic guns, just six days after a terror attack in Christchurch.
The move comes less than a week after a white supremacist rampaged through two mosques, shooting at people as they prayed, sparking global revulsion and national outrage.
The PM announced military style weapons, like the ones used in Friday’s attack that left 50 people dead, will no longer be allowed in the country.
Semi-automatic weapons, assault rifles, high capacity magazines, and parts that can convert guns into military style weapons are included in the ban. Mrs Ardern said:
“On March 15 our history changed forever. Now, our laws will too. We are announcing action today on behalf of all New Zealanders to strengthen our gun laws and make our country a safer place.
“Cabinet agreed to overhaul the law when it met on Monday, 72 hours after the horrific terrorism act in Christchurch.
“Now, six days after this attack, we are announcing a ban on all military style semi-automatics (MSSA) and assault rifles in New Zealand.
“Related parts used to convert these guns into MSSAs are also being banned, along with all high-capacity magazines.
“To owners who have legitimate uses for their guns, I want to reiterate that the actions being announced today are not because of you, and are not directed at you. Our actions, on behalf of all New Zealanders, are directed at making sure this never happens again.”
