Pakistan — Gun Facts, Figures and the Law

[fatman17]

Pakistan — Gun Facts, Figures and the Law

Stockpiles Gun Numbers
Civilian Guns
The estimated total number of guns held by civilians in Pakistan is 18,000,0001

Civilian Firearm Possession per 100 Population
The rate of private gun ownership in Pakistan is 11.62 firearms per 100 people

Privately Owned Firearms - World Ranking
In a comparison of the number of privately owned guns in 178 countries, Pakistan ranked at No. 61

Privately Owned Firearms per 100 Population - World Ranking
In a comparison of the rate of private gun ownership in 179 countries, Pakistan ranked at No. 572

Number of Licensed Firearm Owners
The number of licensed gun owners in Pakistan is reported to be 7,000,0003

Licensed Firearm Owners per 100 Population
The rate of licensed firearm owners in Pakistan is 4.374 per 100 people

Government Guns
Number of Military Firearms
The defence forces of Pakistan are reported to have 2,922,5005 firearms

Number of Law Enforcement Firearms
Police in Pakistan are reported to have 418,8716 firearms

Impacts Gun Death and Injury
Number of Homicides (any method)ChartIn Pakistan, annual homicides by any means total

2008: 12,0597
2007: 10,556
2006: 10,048
2005: 9,631
2004: 9,719
2003: 9,346
2002: 9,396
2001: 9,528
2000: 8,906
1999: 9,332
1998: 10,246
1997: 9,304
1996: 9,062

Rate of Homicide per 100,000 People (any method)ChartIn Pakistan, the annual rate of homicide by any means per 100,000 population is

2008: 6.348
2007: 6.67
2006: 6.47
2005: 6.35
2004: 4.95
2003: 6.40
2002: 5.13
2001: 6.79
2000: 3.46
1999: 3.49
1998: 7.74

Production Gun Industry
Firearm Manufacture
In Pakistan, the manufacture of small arms, ammunition and/or their components is permitted only if the maker holds a valid licence 9 10

Small Arms Manufacture - World Ranking
In a classification of the world's small, medium and major firearm manufacturers, Pakistan is ranked 'medium'11

Home-made Guns
In Pakistan the prevalence of illicit craft, or 'home-made' firearm manufacture is reported to be high

Transfers Gun Trade and Trafficking
Export Control
In Pakistan, firearm and ammunition exports are limited by transfer control law 10 13

Small Arms Exports (US$)
The annual value of small arms and ammunition exports from Pakistan is reported to be US$3,650,90914 (2009)

Small Arms Exports - World Ranking
In a comparison of the world's major/mid-level/minor/unknown small arms exporters, Pakistan is categorized as 'mid-level'15

Import Control
In Pakistan, firearm and ammunition imports are limited by transfer control law 10

Small Arms Imports (US$)
The annual value of small arms and ammunition imports to Pakistan is reported to be US$35,657,79914 (2009)

Market Cost of an AK-47 Assault Rifle (US$)
The asking price for an AK-47 pattern assault weapon in Pakistan is reported to be US$28016, or 80-100 for locally assembled, 360-400 for locally assembled with foreign components, and 700-1,000 for a Russian-manufactured original12

Regulation of Arms Brokers
In Pakistan, the activities of arms brokers and transfer intermediaries are not specifically regulated by law17

End User Certificates
Customs regulations in Pakistan include18 13 certification of the intended end user of any small arms or ammunition transfer, and/or a written declaration of its intended end use

Transparency of Small Arms Transfers
In the most recent survey of state transparency when declaring firearm and ammunition exports, Pakistan was ranked number 29 among 49 major small arms exporting nations in 2011, with a score of 9.75 points of a possible total of 25

Gun Regulation
Firearm Regulation - Guiding PolicyThe regulation of guns in Pakistan is categorised as permissive20
Firearm LawGuiding gun control legislation in Pakistan is the Pakistan Arms Ordinance 196521
Firearm Regulation AuthorityGuns in Pakistan are regulated by the Government22 23

Right to Possess FirearmsIn Pakistan, the right to private gun ownership is not guaranteed by law17
Prohibited Firearms and Ammunition

Regulation of Automatic Assault WeaponsIn Pakistan, private possession of fully automatic weapons is permitted under licence17

Regulation of Semiautomatic Assault WeaponsIn Pakistan, private possession of semi-automatic assault weapons is permitted under licence17

Regulation of HandgunsIn Pakistan, private possession of handguns (pistols and revolvers) is permitted under licence17

Gun Owner Licensing In Pakistan, only licensed gun owners24 25 may lawfully acquire, possess or transfer a firearm or ammunitionCompareGenuine Reason Required for Firearm LicenceApplicants for a gun owner’s licence in Pakistan are not required to prove genuine reason to possess a firearm17

Reference Required for Firearm Licence In Pakistan, third party character references for each gun licence applicant are not required17

Domestic Violence and FirearmsWhere a past history, or apprehended likelihood of family violence exists, the law in Pakistan does not stipulate17 that a gun licence should be denied or revoked

Firearm Safety Training In Pakistan, an understanding of firearm safety and the law, tested in a theoretical and/or practical training course is not required17 for a firearm licence

Limit on Number of Guns Licensed firearm owners in Pakistan are permitted to possess any number of firearms17

Limit on Quantity, Type of AmmunitionA licensed firearm owner in Pakistan is permitted to possess any quantity of ammunition17

Firearm Registration
Civilian Gun RegistrationIn Pakistan, the law requires18 that a record of the acquisition, possession and transfer of each privately held firearm be retained in an official register

Gun Dealer Record KeepingIn Pakistan, licensed firearm dealers are required22 to keep a record of each firearm or ammunition purchase, sale or transfer on behalf of a regulating authority

Gun Manufacturer Record KeepingIn Pakistan, licensed gun makers are required26 27 18 to keep a record of each firearm produced, for inspection by a regulating authority

State-Owned Firearm RecordsIn Pakistan, State agencies are required26 27 18 to maintain records of the storage and movement of all firearms and ammunition under their control

Gun Sales and Transfers
Regulation of Private Gun SalesIn Pakistan, the private sale and transfer of firearms is permitted28
Regulation of Dealer Gun SalesIn Pakistan, dealing in firearms by way of business without a valid gun dealer’s licence is unlawful28

Waiting Period for Gun PossessionIn Pakistan, the minimum wait for a lawful firearm purchase to be completed is undetermined17

Regulation of Gun ShowsIn Pakistan, gun shows and temporary firearm dealing events are not regulated17 in law

Storage and Transport of Guns and Ammunition
Firearm and Ammunition Storage Regulations - PrivateFirearm regulations in Pakistan do not include17 written specifications for the lawful safe storage of private firearms and ammunition by licensed gun owners

Firearm and Ammunition Storage Regulations - DealerFirearm regulations in Pakistan do not include17 written specifications for the lawful safe storage of firearms and ammunition by licensed arms dealers

Firearm and Ammunition Storage Regulations - GovernmentGovernment regulations in Pakistan do not include17 written specifications for the lawful safe storage of firearms and ammunition by state entities

Firearm and Ammunition Transport RegulationsRegulations in Pakistan include29 written specifications for the lawful safe storage of firearms and ammunition while in transit

Marking and Tracing Guns and Ammunition
Firearm MarkingIn Pakistan, a unique identifying mark on each firearm is required by law30 18 27

Firearm TracingIn Pakistan, state authorities carry out27 recognised arms tracing and tracking procedures

Ballistic Marking of Firearms and AmmunitionIn Pakistan, state authorities do not employ17 ballistic fingerprinting technology to trace guns and ammunition

Gun Free ZonesIn Pakistan, private guns are prohibited in educational institutions, hostels or boarding and lodging houses, fairs, gatherings or processions of a political, religious, ceremonial or sectarian character, and on the premises of Courts of law or public offices31

Penalty for Illicit Firearm PossessionIn Pakistan, the maximum penalty for illicit possession of firearms is 7 years prison32

Collection, Amnesty and Destruction ProgrammesAuthorities in Pakistan are known to have33 implemented voluntary firearm surrender schemes, and/or weapon seizure programmes in order to reduce the number of illicit firearms in circulation

Surrendered in Gun AmnestyIn Pakistan, the number of firearms and/or rounds of ammunition voluntarily surrendered for destruction in recent arms amnesty and collection programmes is reported to be 89,00033 (2010)

Exchanged in Gun BuybackIn Pakistan, the total number of firearms exchanged for monetary or in-kind compensation during recent gun buyback and disposal programmes is reported to be 20,00033

Small Arms DestroyedIn Pakistan, the total number of firearms destroyed following recent amnesty, collection and seizure programmes is reported to be 641,10733

MeasuresInternational Controls
Regional AgreementsUnited Nations Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal JusticeAt the resumption of the most recent session of the UN Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice (UNCCPCJ), a subsidiary body of the Economic and Social Council mandated to promote action to prevent national and transnational crime, Pakistan was listed as an elected member for a three-year term of office34

United Nations Arms Trade TreatyIn 2009, Pakistan abstained from endorsing35 negotiations towards a legally binding Arms Trade Treaty. In this vote, 151 UN Member States supported talks on an ATT, with 1 voting against, 20 abstentions, and 20 non-votes

United Nations Firearms ProtocolThe United Nations Protocol against the Illicit Manufacturing of and Trafficking in Firearms, Their Parts and Components and Ammunition has not been signed36 by Pakistan

United Nations Small Arms Programme of Action UNPoAUNPoA CommitmentOn 21 July 2001, Pakistan committed to a consensus decision of the United Nations to adopt, support and implement the UN Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects37CompareUNPoA National ReportingUnder the terms of its 2001 commitment to the United Nations small arms Programme of Action, Pakistan has submitted one or more national reports38 39 on its implementation of the UNPoACompareUNPoA National Point of ContactIn Pakistan, a National Point of Contact to deal with issues relating to the UNPoA has been designated40 39CompareUNPoA National Coordinating BodyIn Pakistan, a National Coordinating Body to deal with issues relating to the UNPoA has been designated40CompareUNPoA Civil Society Involvement and SupportIn National Reports of Pakistan submitted to the UN, a history of substantive cooperation with civil society in support of UNPoA activities is apparent39CompareUNPoA International Assistance – DonorFunds for UNPoA implementation have not been donated39 by Pakistan to other UN Member States

United Nations Small Arms RegisterAccording to the United Nations Register of Conventional Arms, Pakistan has not declared1 its small arms exports in one or more annual National Reports on Arms Exports.

United Nations MembershipIn the UN List of Member States, Pakistan has been a Member State of the United Nations since 194741

Wassenaar ArrangementThe Wassenaar Arrangement on Export Controls and Conventional Arms and Dual-Use Goods and Technologies does not list42 Pakistan as a Participating State


Last Updated on 9 February 2012

Short References
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2.Karp, Aaron.2007.‘Completing the Count: Civilian firearms.’ Small Arms Survey 2007: Guns and the City.Cambridge:Cambridge University Press,27 August. (Q5)Full Citation

3.Batchelor, Peter.2003.‘Workshops and Factories: Products and Producers.’ Small Arms Survey 2003: Development Denied.Oxford:Oxford University Press,1 July. (Q2983)Full Citation

4.GunPolicy.org.2011.‘Calculated Rates – Pakistan.’ Historical Population Data – USCB International Data Base.Suitland, MD:US Census Bureau Population Division,17 March. (Q4277)Full Citation

5.Karp, Aaron.2006.‘Trickle and Torrent: State stockpiles.’ Small Arms Survey 2006: Unfinished Business.Oxford:Oxford University Press,1 July. (Q6)Full Citation

6.Karp, Aaron.2006.‘Trickle and Torrent: State stockpiles.’ Small Arms Survey 2006: Unfinished Business.Oxford:Oxford University Press,1 July. (Q7)Full Citation

7.Pakistan.2010.‘Crime Reported by Type – Murder.’ Federal Bureau of Statistics, Social Statistics – Crime Statistics 1996-2006.Islamabad:Bureau of Police Research & Development, Federal Bureau of Statistics, Ministry of Interior,12 September. (Q2471)Full Citation

8.Petrini, Benjamin.2011.‘South Asia, 1995-2008, Total Recorded Intentional Homicide, Completed, Rate per 100,000 Population.’ World Bank Homicide Rate Dataset 1995-2008.Washington DC:Social Development Department, World Bank,10 February. (Q3815)Full Citation

9.Pakistan.2010.‘Legal, Regulatory and Administrative Framework.’ National Report of Pakistan on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New Yorkermanent Mission of Pakistan to the United Nations,1 June. (Q2389)Full Citation

10.Pakistan.2010.‘Legal, Regulatory and Administrative Framework.’ National Report of Pakistan on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New Yorkermanent Mission of Pakistan to the United Nations,1 June. (Q2387)Full Citation

11.Small Arms Survey.2001.‘Ranking of World's Small Arms Producers (By Sales).’ Small Arms Survey 2001: Profiling the Problem.Oxford:Oxford University Press,1 July. (Q103)Full Citation

12.Batchelor, Peter.2003.‘Workshops and Factories: Products and Producers.’ Small Arms Survey 2003: Development Denied.Oxford:Oxford University Press,1 July. (Q2982)Full Citation

13.Pakistan.2010.‘Legal, Regulatory and Administrative Framework.’ National Report of Pakistan on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New Yorkermanent Mission of Pakistan to the United Nations,1 June. (Q2388)Full Citation

14.Marsh, Nicholas.2011.‘Database of Authorised Transfers of Small Arms and Light Weapons.’ NISAT Small Arms Trade Database.Oslo:Norwegian Initiative on Small Arms Transfers,1 June. (Q16)Full Citation

15.Small Arms Survey.2001.‘60 Known Legal Small Arms Exporting Countries, 2001.’ Small Arms Survey 2001: Profiling the Problem.Oxford:Oxford University Press,1 July. (Q867)Full Citation

16.World Bank.2007.‘Available Kalashnikov Prices for Specific Countries and Periods.’ Small Arms Survey 2007: Guns and the City.Cambridge:Cambridge University Press,27 August. (Q3)Full Citation

17.Pakistan.1965.‘Pakistan Arms Ordinance.’ Pakistan Arms Ordinance 1965 (W.P. Ord. XX of 1965).Islamabad:Central Government of Pakistan,8 June. (Q4156)Full Citation

18.Pakistan.2010.‘Marking and Record Keeping Requirements.’ National Report of Pakistan on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New Yorkermanent Mission of Pakistan to the United Nations,1 June. (Q2392)Full Citation

19.Lazarevic, Jasna.2011.‘Small Arms Trade Transparency Barometer 2011, covering major exporters.’ Small Arms Survey 2011: States of Security.Cambridge:Cambridge University Press,6 July. (Q5354)Full Citation

20.Newton, George D and Franklin E Zimring.1969.‘Firearm Licensing: Permissive v Restrictive.’ Firearms & Violence in American Life: A Staff Report submitted to the National Commission on the Causes and Prevention of Violence.Washington, DC:US Government Printing Office,1 January. (Q22)Full Citation

21.Pakistan.1965.‘Pakistan Arms Ordinance.’ Pakistan Arms Ordinance 1965 (W.P. Ord. XX of 1965).Islamabad:Central Government of Pakistan,8 June. (Q2236)Full Citation

22.Pakistan.1965.‘Power to Make Rules as to Licences.’ Pakistan Arms Ordinance 1965 (W.P. Ord. XX of 1965).Islamabad:Central Government of Pakistan,8 June. (Q2243)Full Citation

23.Pakistan.1965.‘Power of the Federal Government.’ Pakistan Arms Ordinance 1965 (W.P. Ord. XX of 1965).Islamabad:Central Government of Pakistan,8 June. (Q2244)Full Citation

24.Pakistan.1965.‘Unlicensed Possession of Arms.’ Pakistan Arms Ordinance 1965 (W.P. Ord. XX of 1965).Islamabad:Central Government of Pakistan,8 June. (Q2242)Full Citation

25.Pakistan.1965.‘Prohibition of Going Armed Without Licence.’ Pakistan Arms Ordinance 1965 (W.P. Ord. XX of 1965).Islamabad:Central Government of Pakistan,8 June. (Q2241)Full Citation

26.Pakistan.2005.‘Legislation, Administrative Procedures, Law Enforcement.’ National Report of Pakistan on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New Yorkermanent Mission of Pakistan to the United Nations,1 June. (Q2394)Full Citation

27.Pakistan.2010.‘Legal, Regulatory and Administrative Framework.’ National Report of Pakistan on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New Yorkermanent Mission of Pakistan to the United Nations,1 June. (Q2390)Full Citation

28.Pakistan.1965.‘Unlicensed Sale and Repair Prohibited.’ Pakistan Arms Ordinance 1965 (W.P. Ord. XX of 1965).Islamabad:Central Government of Pakistan,8 June. (Q2239)Full Citation

29.Pakistan.1965.‘Power to Prohibit Transport.’ Pakistan Arms Ordinance 1965 (W.P. Ord. XX of 1965).Islamabad:Central Government of Pakistan,8 June. (Q2240)Full Citation

30.Pakistan.2010.‘Marking and Record Keeping Requirements.’ National Report of Pakistan on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New Yorkermanent Mission of Pakistan to the United Nations,1 June. (Q2391)Full Citation

31.Pakistan.1965.‘Prohibition of Keeping, Carrying, or Displaying Arms.’ Pakistan Arms Ordinance 1965 (W.P. Ord. XX of 1965).Islamabad:Central Government of Pakistan,8 June. (Q2245)Full Citation

32.Pakistan.1965.‘Penalties.’ Pakistan Arms Ordinance 1965 (W.P. Ord. XX of 1965).Islamabad:Central Government of Pakistan,8 June. (Q2237)Full Citation

33.Pakistan.2010.‘Initiatives of Government of Pakistan.’ National Report of Pakistan on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New Yorkermanent Mission of Pakistan to the United Nations,1 June. (Q2393)Full Citation

34.UNCCPCJ / UNODC.1991.‘Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice.’ United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.Vienna:United Nations Economic and Social Council / United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime,1 January. (Q3222)Full Citation

35.UNGA.2009.‘Towards an Arms Trade Treaty: Establishing common international standards for the import, export and transfer of conventional arms.’ UN Resolution A/RES/64/48.New York:United Nations General Assembly,2 June. (Q1886)Full Citation

36.UNGA.2001.‘United Nations Protocol against the Illicit Manufacturing of and Trafficking in Firearms, Their Parts and Components and Ammunition.’ UN General Assembly Resolution 55/255.New York:UN General Assembly,31 May. (Q17)Full Citation

37.UNGA.2001.‘Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects.’ United Nations General Assembly.New York:UN General Assembly,20 July. (Q18)Full Citation

38.Cattaneo, Silvia and Sarah Parker.2008.‘Reporting, NPCs and NCAs, 2002 to 2008.’ Implementing the United Nations Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons: Analysis of the National Reports submitted by States from 2002 to 2008.Geneva:United Nations Development Programme,1 November. (Q20)Full Citation

39.UNODA.2009.‘PoA-ISS Country Profiles.’ UN small arms Programme of Action (UNPoA) – Implementation Support System.New York:United Nations Office of Disarmament Affairs,29 October. (Q1309)Full Citation

40.IANSA.2006.‘Reviewing Action on Small Arms 2006: Assessing the first five years of the UN Programme of Action.’ Biting the Bullet 'Red Book' 2006.New York:International Action Network on Small Arms and the Biting the Bullet project,26 June. (Q166)Full Citation

41.UN.2009.‘Member States of the United Nations.’ UN.org Web Site.New York:United Nations General Assembly,11 May. (Q290)Full Citation

42.Wassenaar Arrangement.1996.‘Introduction: Participating States.’ Wassenaar Arrangement on Export Controls and Conventional Arms and Dual-Use Goods and Technologies.Vienna:Wassenaar Secretariat,12 July. (Q19)Full Citation

Citation for this Article
Alpers, Philip and Marcus Wilson. 2012. Guns in Pakistan: Facts, Figures and Firearm Law.

Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney. GunPolicy.org, 9 February.

Accessed 10 May 2012. at: Guns in Pakistan: Facts, Figures and Firearm Law
Additional Information Search Gun Policy News
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[fatman17]

Defence Industry of Pakistan

By RSN Singh

Issue: Book Excerpt: Asian Strategy and Military Perspective | Date: 01 February, 2012


After partition, Pakistan did not inherit any military production facilities. In 1951, the Pakistan Ordnance Factory was established at Wah cantonment to produce small arms, ammunition and explosives. After 1965, Pakistan, apart from shifting its overwhelming arms supplies reliance from the US to China and other western countries like France; also began to concentrate on expanding its defence production facilities. In this, it received effusive assistance from China.

The Heavy Industries facility in Taxila was established in 1971. In 1973, the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) was established at Kamra, (north of Islamabad), which began to assemble F-6 and French Mirages. Pakistan also indigenously produces ‘Mushak’ trainer aircraft. The PAC is planning to assemble the Chinese-developed JF-17 lightweight fighters from 2005, as also K-8 Karakorum advanced jet trainers for the PAF and potential export customers. The PAC’s contribution in the manufacturing of the K-8 aircraft project is believed to be about 20 percent. Nevertheless, the PAC aims to have 50 percent of the export share in the number of JF-17 and K-8 aircraft sold outside China.

Pakistan has achieved self-sufficiency in small arms and is well on its way to attain the same capability with regard to all types of tank and artillery ammunition

In 1989, a contract was signed with General Dynamics Land Systems, USA for the establishment of an overhauling facility at Taxila for M-47 / M-48 tanks, M-109 and M-110 self-propelled guns, and M-113 series of APCs. An engine re-build plant with a capability of overhauling 100 engines each of Type-59 and 69 tanks was also established. With this expansion, the Heavy Rebuild Factory was renamed as Heavy Defence Industries, Taxila. During the IDEAS-2000 Defence Exhibition held at Karachi, Heavy Industries, Taxila (HIT) demonstrated its indigenously produced Main Battle Tank (MBT) Al-Khalid and Al Zarrar tank (modified and upgraded T-59 tank).

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), and ANZA (shoulder fired surface-to-air missile) and Baktar Shikan anti-tank missiles (range 3,000 metres) — all produced by AQ Khan Research Laboratory — were also on display. HIT also displayed the indigenously built Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) ‘Talah’, and Command Post Vehicle ‘Sakb’. HIT produces Chinese T-85 II-AP tanks under licence. The Kahuta based AQ Khan Research Laboratory has developed an upgrade kit for the Chinese supplied Twin-37 mm light anti-aircraft guns. It also has begun to produce 122mm T-83 (Azar) Multiple Rocket System with a range of 13,400 metres. Pakistan has achieved self-sufficiency in small arms and is well on its way to attain the same capability with regard to all types of tank and artillery ammunition.

The Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works (KSEW) was established in 1957 and undertakes construction of passenger vessels, cargo vessels, oil carriers, bulk carriers etc. It has also been successful in producing mine hunters (length 47-metres, speed 14-knots), patrol boats (length 39-metres, speed 23-knots), 200-tonne missile craft (speed 25-knots), and floating docks up to 4,000-tonne lifting capacity.

Over 200 defence items including missiles (anti-tank and surface-to-air), tanks, artillery guns and spare parts are being exported to more than 21 targeted countries...

The KSEW offers these vessels on sale, however, due to lack of orders, the organisation is believed to be under great financial stress. The Pak Naval Dockyard under the Ministry of Defence also undertakes construction, repair and maintenance of vessels exclusively for the Pak Navy. It can build warships of up to 5,000 tonne.

Over 200 defence items including missiles (anti-tank and surface-to-air), tanks, artillery guns and spare parts are being exported to more than 21 targeted countries including Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Turkey, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Libya, Mauritius, and India’s neighbours like Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar. It has also been trying to create a market for defence products in Nepal. Pakistan’s defence exports amounted to US $ 130 million in 2003 and the Defence Export Promotion Organisation (DEPO) has set a target of US $ one billion for the next 8 to 10 years.

It has already begun to offer its Al-Khalid and Al-Zarrar tanks to Bangladesh and Thailand. Its defence supplies to Sri Lanka are substantial and constitute artillery and small arms ammunition, MRLs, UAVs, and aircraft ammunition. The PAC, Kamra is also providing repair and maintenance of F-6 aircraft of the Sri Lanka Air Force. It has supplied items like artillery guns and ammunition, 81mm mortars and ammunition, and spares of K-8 aircraft to Myanmar. It has made inroads into the Malaysian arms market with the supply of Baktar Shikan ATGMs and Anza surface-to-air missiles.

 

[Zarvan]

Pakistan — Gun Facts, Figures and the Law

Stockpiles Gun Numbers
Civilian Guns
The estimated total number of guns held by civilians in Pakistan is 18,000,0001

Civilian Firearm Possession per 100 Population
The rate of private gun ownership in Pakistan is 11.62 firearms per 100 people

Privately Owned Firearms - World Ranking
In a comparison of the number of privately owned guns in 178 countries, Pakistan ranked at No. 61

Privately Owned Firearms per 100 Population - World Ranking
In a comparison of the rate of private gun ownership in 179 countries, Pakistan ranked at No. 572

Number of Licensed Firearm Owners
The number of licensed gun owners in Pakistan is reported to be 7,000,0003

Licensed Firearm Owners per 100 Population
The rate of licensed firearm owners in Pakistan is 4.374 per 100 people

Government Guns
Number of Military Firearms
The defence forces of Pakistan are reported to have 2,922,5005 firearms

Number of Law Enforcement Firearms
Police in Pakistan are reported to have 418,8716 firearms

Impacts Gun Death and Injury
Number of Homicides (any method)ChartIn Pakistan, annual homicides by any means total

2008: 12,0597
2007: 10,556
2006: 10,048
2005: 9,631
2004: 9,719
2003: 9,346
2002: 9,396
2001: 9,528
2000: 8,906
1999: 9,332
1998: 10,246
1997: 9,304
1996: 9,062

Rate of Homicide per 100,000 People (any method)ChartIn Pakistan, the annual rate of homicide by any means per 100,000 population is

2008: 6.348
2007: 6.67
2006: 6.47
2005: 6.35
2004: 4.95
2003: 6.40
2002: 5.13
2001: 6.79
2000: 3.46
1999: 3.49
1998: 7.74

Production Gun Industry
Firearm Manufacture
In Pakistan, the manufacture of small arms, ammunition and/or their components is permitted only if the maker holds a valid licence 9 10

Small Arms Manufacture - World Ranking
In a classification of the world's small, medium and major firearm manufacturers, Pakistan is ranked 'medium'11

Home-made Guns
In Pakistan the prevalence of illicit craft, or 'home-made' firearm manufacture is reported to be high

Transfers Gun Trade and Trafficking
Export Control
In Pakistan, firearm and ammunition exports are limited by transfer control law 10 13

Small Arms Exports (US$)
The annual value of small arms and ammunition exports from Pakistan is reported to be US$3,650,90914 (2009)

Small Arms Exports - World Ranking
In a comparison of the world's major/mid-level/minor/unknown small arms exporters, Pakistan is categorized as 'mid-level'15

Import Control
In Pakistan, firearm and ammunition imports are limited by transfer control law 10

Small Arms Imports (US$)
The annual value of small arms and ammunition imports to Pakistan is reported to be US$35,657,79914 (2009)

Market Cost of an AK-47 Assault Rifle (US$)
The asking price for an AK-47 pattern assault weapon in Pakistan is reported to be US$28016, or 80-100 for locally assembled, 360-400 for locally assembled with foreign components, and 700-1,000 for a Russian-manufactured original12

Regulation of Arms Brokers
In Pakistan, the activities of arms brokers and transfer intermediaries are not specifically regulated by law17

End User Certificates
Customs regulations in Pakistan include18 13 certification of the intended end user of any small arms or ammunition transfer, and/or a written declaration of its intended end use

Transparency of Small Arms Transfers
In the most recent survey of state transparency when declaring firearm and ammunition exports, Pakistan was ranked number 29 among 49 major small arms exporting nations in 2011, with a score of 9.75 points of a possible total of 25

Gun Regulation
Firearm Regulation - Guiding PolicyThe regulation of guns in Pakistan is categorised as permissive20
Firearm LawGuiding gun control legislation in Pakistan is the Pakistan Arms Ordinance 196521
Firearm Regulation AuthorityGuns in Pakistan are regulated by the Government22 23

Right to Possess FirearmsIn Pakistan, the right to private gun ownership is not guaranteed by law17
Prohibited Firearms and Ammunition

Regulation of Automatic Assault WeaponsIn Pakistan, private possession of fully automatic weapons is permitted under licence17

Regulation of Semiautomatic Assault WeaponsIn Pakistan, private possession of semi-automatic assault weapons is permitted under licence17

Regulation of HandgunsIn Pakistan, private possession of handguns (pistols and revolvers) is permitted under licence17

Gun Owner Licensing In Pakistan, only licensed gun owners24 25 may lawfully acquire, possess or transfer a firearm or ammunitionCompareGenuine Reason Required for Firearm LicenceApplicants for a gun owner’s licence in Pakistan are not required to prove genuine reason to possess a firearm17

Reference Required for Firearm Licence In Pakistan, third party character references for each gun licence applicant are not required17

Domestic Violence and FirearmsWhere a past history, or apprehended likelihood of family violence exists, the law in Pakistan does not stipulate17 that a gun licence should be denied or revoked

Firearm Safety Training In Pakistan, an understanding of firearm safety and the law, tested in a theoretical and/or practical training course is not required17 for a firearm licence

Limit on Number of Guns Licensed firearm owners in Pakistan are permitted to possess any number of firearms17

Limit on Quantity, Type of AmmunitionA licensed firearm owner in Pakistan is permitted to possess any quantity of ammunition17

Firearm Registration
Civilian Gun RegistrationIn Pakistan, the law requires18 that a record of the acquisition, possession and transfer of each privately held firearm be retained in an official register

Gun Dealer Record KeepingIn Pakistan, licensed firearm dealers are required22 to keep a record of each firearm or ammunition purchase, sale or transfer on behalf of a regulating authority

Gun Manufacturer Record KeepingIn Pakistan, licensed gun makers are required26 27 18 to keep a record of each firearm produced, for inspection by a regulating authority

State-Owned Firearm RecordsIn Pakistan, State agencies are required26 27 18 to maintain records of the storage and movement of all firearms and ammunition under their control

Gun Sales and Transfers
Regulation of Private Gun SalesIn Pakistan, the private sale and transfer of firearms is permitted28
Regulation of Dealer Gun SalesIn Pakistan, dealing in firearms by way of business without a valid gun dealer’s licence is unlawful28

Waiting Period for Gun PossessionIn Pakistan, the minimum wait for a lawful firearm purchase to be completed is undetermined17

Regulation of Gun ShowsIn Pakistan, gun shows and temporary firearm dealing events are not regulated17 in law

Storage and Transport of Guns and Ammunition
Firearm and Ammunition Storage Regulations - PrivateFirearm regulations in Pakistan do not include17 written specifications for the lawful safe storage of private firearms and ammunition by licensed gun owners

Firearm and Ammunition Storage Regulations - DealerFirearm regulations in Pakistan do not include17 written specifications for the lawful safe storage of firearms and ammunition by licensed arms dealers

Firearm and Ammunition Storage Regulations - GovernmentGovernment regulations in Pakistan do not include17 written specifications for the lawful safe storage of firearms and ammunition by state entities

Firearm and Ammunition Transport RegulationsRegulations in Pakistan include29 written specifications for the lawful safe storage of firearms and ammunition while in transit

Marking and Tracing Guns and Ammunition
Firearm MarkingIn Pakistan, a unique identifying mark on each firearm is required by law30 18 27

Firearm TracingIn Pakistan, state authorities carry out27 recognised arms tracing and tracking procedures

Ballistic Marking of Firearms and AmmunitionIn Pakistan, state authorities do not employ17 ballistic fingerprinting technology to trace guns and ammunition

Gun Free ZonesIn Pakistan, private guns are prohibited in educational institutions, hostels or boarding and lodging houses, fairs, gatherings or processions of a political, religious, ceremonial or sectarian character, and on the premises of Courts of law or public offices31

Penalty for Illicit Firearm PossessionIn Pakistan, the maximum penalty for illicit possession of firearms is 7 years prison32

Collection, Amnesty and Destruction ProgrammesAuthorities in Pakistan are known to have33 implemented voluntary firearm surrender schemes, and/or weapon seizure programmes in order to reduce the number of illicit firearms in circulation

Surrendered in Gun AmnestyIn Pakistan, the number of firearms and/or rounds of ammunition voluntarily surrendered for destruction in recent arms amnesty and collection programmes is reported to be 89,00033 (2010)

Exchanged in Gun BuybackIn Pakistan, the total number of firearms exchanged for monetary or in-kind compensation during recent gun buyback and disposal programmes is reported to be 20,00033

Small Arms DestroyedIn Pakistan, the total number of firearms destroyed following recent amnesty, collection and seizure programmes is reported to be 641,10733

MeasuresInternational Controls
Regional AgreementsUnited Nations Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal JusticeAt the resumption of the most recent session of the UN Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice (UNCCPCJ), a subsidiary body of the Economic and Social Council mandated to promote action to prevent national and transnational crime, Pakistan was listed as an elected member for a three-year term of office34

United Nations Arms Trade TreatyIn 2009, Pakistan abstained from endorsing35 negotiations towards a legally binding Arms Trade Treaty. In this vote, 151 UN Member States supported talks on an ATT, with 1 voting against, 20 abstentions, and 20 non-votes

United Nations Firearms ProtocolThe United Nations Protocol against the Illicit Manufacturing of and Trafficking in Firearms, Their Parts and Components and Ammunition has not been signed36 by Pakistan

United Nations Small Arms Programme of Action UNPoAUNPoA CommitmentOn 21 July 2001, Pakistan committed to a consensus decision of the United Nations to adopt, support and implement the UN Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects37CompareUNPoA National ReportingUnder the terms of its 2001 commitment to the United Nations small arms Programme of Action, Pakistan has submitted one or more national reports38 39 on its implementation of the UNPoACompareUNPoA National Point of ContactIn Pakistan, a National Point of Contact to deal with issues relating to the UNPoA has been designated40 39CompareUNPoA National Coordinating BodyIn Pakistan, a National Coordinating Body to deal with issues relating to the UNPoA has been designated40CompareUNPoA Civil Society Involvement and SupportIn National Reports of Pakistan submitted to the UN, a history of substantive cooperation with civil society in support of UNPoA activities is apparent39CompareUNPoA International Assistance – DonorFunds for UNPoA implementation have not been donated39 by Pakistan to other UN Member States

United Nations Small Arms RegisterAccording to the United Nations Register of Conventional Arms, Pakistan has not declared1 its small arms exports in one or more annual National Reports on Arms Exports.

United Nations MembershipIn the UN List of Member States, Pakistan has been a Member State of the United Nations since 194741

Wassenaar ArrangementThe Wassenaar Arrangement on Export Controls and Conventional Arms and Dual-Use Goods and Technologies does not list42 Pakistan as a Participating State


Last Updated on 9 February 2012

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Citation for this Article
Alpers, Philip and Marcus Wilson. 2012. Guns in Pakistan: Facts, Figures and Firearm Law.

Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney. GunPolicy.org, 9 February.

Accessed 10 May 2012. at: Guns in Pakistan: Facts, Figures and Firearm Law
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The Number mentioned is enough to refute this funny theory almost the same population of people and Guns exist in country some one should be kidding or must be kidding

 

[fatman17]

The Number mentioned is enough to refute this funny theory almost the same population of people and Guns exist in country some one should be kidding or must be kidding

the last 2 digits are reference numbers

 

[A.Muqeet khan]

hey is 7.62x51mm allowed bore in pakistan ?

 

[fatman17]

hey is 7.62x51mm allowed bore in pakistan ?

anything is allowed here - you need to have the right connections. this 'gun culture' in our country has reached dangerous proportions!