Colombia President Abelardo de la Espriella ends ten-year firearm permit suspension

President Abelardo de la Espriella announced the termination of a ten‑year suspension on permits to carry legal firearms, restoring the ability of qualified citizens to obtain and renew such authorizations. The decision was disclosed during a press briefing held at the presidential palace, where officials indicated that the policy shift aligns with recent revisions to the nation’s firearms regulations.

The suspension, originally imposed in 2014, had halted the issuance of new permits and the renewal of existing ones, affecting private security operators, sport shooters, and individuals meeting statutory criteria. Under the new directive, the Ministry of the Interior will reopen the application process, requiring standard background checks, mandatory safety training, and compliance with updated storage guidelines. Authorities have indicated that the reinstatement will be carried out in phases to ensure administrative capacity and public safety oversight.

The reversal is expected to re‑enable lawful firearm ownership while subjecting applicants to the revised regulatory framework. Government representatives affirmed that monitoring mechanisms will be strengthened to track compliance and address any emerging concerns.