Gun control coming to Syria's Aleppo province
Tired of the dangers of widespread, unregulated gun ownership, civilians in some areas of Aleppo province are demanding relief.
ALEPPO — The clock is winding down on unrestricted gun sales in opposition-controlled areas of Aleppo province in Syria.
The opposition's Free Syrian Army (FSA) and its affiliated Syrian National Army (SNA) have set a deadline for gun dealers and unlicensed stores selling ammunition and firearms to halt their activities in rural Aleppo. The groups warned that those failing to abide by the decision will face harsh sanctions.
The SNA gave all those involved one month, beginning June 27, to comply. Once the deadline passes, anyone caught with firearms or ammunition destined for trade will be arrested and referred to the judiciary and could face "severe punishment." According to a statement, SNA will grant official written permits to some of the merchants who supply FSA factions with arms and ammunition during military operations.
Speaking to Al-Monitor, SNA spokesman Maj. Yusuf Hamoud said the arms trade has become widespread in rural Aleppo.
