To the editor:
Despite regional differences, handguns are the most common illegal firearm in most parts of British Columbia, due to their ready availability.
Smuggled handguns and restricted firearms, which have not been re-registered, are the largest category of recovered illicit firearms.
The major sources of illicit firearms in Canada are smuggled firearms and domestic theft. These have remained consistent sources over the recent years and will continue to be for the foreseeable future.
Once entered into the market, an illicit firearm can be functional and in constant circulation for decades, potentially in the possession of numerous users.
Whether you see the gun laws as weak or not, no prohibition policy allows for better control of the trafficking of guns and the flourishing of an illegal gun market.
Law-bidding citizens already adhere to the laws. Those who do not could care less.
I do not think we need to pass more legislation, as there are standardized practices for issuing permits, requirements for reporting lost or stolen weapons, regulating dealers, and strengthening background checks.
Mandatory sentencing and increased punishment are needed for firearm-related crimes.
William Perry
Victoria