In a bid to curb the country’s violence, Mexico’s president has launched a new initiative offering cash incentives to people who voluntarily turn in their firearms. Under the program, called “Yes to Disarmament, Yes to Peace,” Mexican residents can drop off firearms at designated locations without facing legal consequences.
The plan, part of a government strategy to fight crime, aims to reduce the number of weapons on the streets and reduce gun violence. The government guarantees anonymity for participants and gun owners could receive up to $1,300 for turning in high-powered weapons, such as certain semiautomatic rifles and machine guns.
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Despite strict laws aimed at preventing illegal gun sales, Mexico still has issues with firearms crossing the U.S. border, as traffickers smuggle weapons into the country. Authorities believe American gun dealers and traffickers are fueling Mexico’s gun violence, with powerful firearms ending up in the hands of criminal groups.
A report from the U.S. Government Accountability Office details a majority of guns recovered in Mexico have an American origin. According to the report, U.S. officials found that 70% of firearms recovered between 2014 and 2018 were traced back to the U.S.
President Claudia Sheinbaum pointed to a similar program when she was mayor of Mexico City, which successfully removed several guns from the capital. She emphasized the importance of protecting the nation’s children from the daily violence that affects many parts of the country.
Mexico’s National Statistics Institute reports in 2023, the country saw more than 31,000 homicides, with nearly 70% involving the use of firearms.
All firearms collected through the program will be destroyed, officials said.
