Gun Control Measures in Mie Prefecture
The period between January and June of 2011 saw a rise in the number of incidents involving firearms nationwide. The increase in the number of firearm related incidents involving gang members was particularly large. Among these incidents were cases in which stray bullets entered the nearby residences of citizens with no gang connections.
There have been no firearm related incidents in Mie Prefecture since 2008. However, the danger of innocent bystanders becoming involved in firearm related incidents is still a serious concern.
Since it has become possible to obtain firearms, firearm parts and ammunition via the internet, everyday citizens, as well as gang members, may be in possession of firearms illegally.
To prevent firearm related crime and to ensure that regions all over the prefecture remain safe, the Mie Prefectural Police Department is intensifying enforcement of gun control laws.
The Mie Prefectural Police is also confiscating firearms such as military issue firearms, antique firearms and “Airsoft” guns.
This measure is being taken to address the issue of families or individuals keeping military issue firearms or antique firearms in storage areas as mementos.
The measure also targets “Airsoft” guns, such as the M29 and Cassiopeia models, which are considered firearms due to their potential lethality.
If you find any firearms like those listed above, please contact your nearest police department or police station.
Furthermore, if you have any information concerning firearm sightings, rumors of firearm possession or of firearms being sold on the internet, please inform the Mie Prefectural Police Department.
There is a hotline that citizens can call to report information concerning firearms. This hotline is available 24 hours a day and citizens may remain anonymous. In addition, citizens may receive monetary compensation if information that they provide results in the confiscation of firearms or the arrest of a criminal.
The number for the hotline is 0120-10-3774 and calls made to the hotline are toll free.
We appreciate your cooperation in helping to make our communities safer.
