The Ministry of Public security has ordered a nationwide checkup
on explosives and guns in an effort to secure a safe festive season
between the New Year and the Spring Festival, which falls on
February 18 next year.
Winter and spring are traditionally periods that have a high
incident rate of explosive and gun-related cases, the ministry said
in a circular.
The ministry asked local police to examine whether or not
relevant institutions had the correct licenses and personnel to
ensure the safe storage and handling of guns, ammunition and
explosives.
Employees who are deemed to be "unsuitable" in the handling of
these weapons should be transferred, the circular said.
And relevant enterprises and institutions must set up an
information system on the management of explosives and guns to
ensure their traceability.
(Xinhua News Agency December 12, 2006)