Public security forces resolve 20,000 firearm and explosives cases, decrease crimes by 20%

The Ministry of Public Security announced a 20-percent reduction in firearm and explosives-related crimes in 2023 compared to the previous year, according to a statement released on Tuesday.

Public security authorities successfully resolved 20,000 cases and apprehended 20,000 individuals involved in these illicit activities.

Last May, the ministry, in collaboration with other departments such as the Supreme People's Court and the Supreme People's Procuratorate, launched a comprehensive three-year special action plan to combat and control firearms and explosives. The initiative yielded significant results, with a multitude of cases resolved and illegal items seized.

The focus of public security efforts was on tackling illegal production and trafficking, smuggling, and online sales of firearms and explosives. The ministry closely monitored major cases, deploying pursuit operations for individuals on the run. Targeted operations were conducted to confiscate and destroy related items, including a nationwide initiative in September 2023 involving 170 cities, resulting in the concentrated destruction of over 140,000 firearms, explosives, detonators, and other explosive materials.

Source prevention and control were paramount, with public security authorities collaborating with relevant departments for investigations and clean-ups related to firearms. Special attention was given to securing the transportation of guns and ammunition, as well as governing the production of civilian explosives and hazardous materials.

In a proactive move, the ministry inspected approximately 19,000 institutes and companies associated with firearms and explosives in 2023, overseeing the rectification of around 18,000 safety hazards. The collaborative regulatory system is set to be further improved, emphasizing the transformation of firearms and explosives governance from reactive measures to proactive prevention.

The ministry pledged to continue advancing the three-year special action plan, ensuring the sustained enhancement of the collaborative regulatory system while pushing for a transformation in governance strategies from reactive to proactive measures.