Firearms Safety Authority rebukes lobby group over claims of police bullying, standover tactics
New Zealand's firearms regulator has rebuked a lobby group for accusing police of bullying and intimidation tactics. The regulator is transitioning to an independent body, though it will still receive operational support from the police.
Why it matters
This highlights ongoing tensions between law enforcement and gun owners regarding regulatory oversight and trust in government institutions.
The country's gun regulator has issued a stunning rebuke against a firearms lobby group, following claims of police bullying and standover tactics.
The Justice Select Committee has recommended that the Arms Bill be passed.
The Firearms Safety Authority said it was likely a new, independent regulator - Firearms Safety and Education New Zealand - would be operating from September.
The organisation would be "hosted" by New Zealand Police, which meant it would provide operational support. However, sworn police officers would no longer be involved in the day-to-day decision making of the new body.
Hugh Devereux-Mack from the Council of Licensed Firearms Owners (COLFO) welcomed that move and said police were not trusted by the group's members.
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