The National Legislative Assembly has passed to the forth reading a bill that restricts the use of private weapons to only individuals who are at least 45 years old.

The bill requires that any person who is to possess private weapons should not have criminal record of alcohol or drug abuse.

The person should also own a valid residential permit for a period of at least one year at one certain area.

The guns that are allowed to be licensed under the bill include shotguns, handguns, pistols, and airguns not exceeding 22 millimeters.

The Criminal Investigation Department would be responsible for the applications and background checking and submission of the application to the Inspector General of Police.

The period of license would be one year and may be renewed.

The bill also allows security companies to seek licenses for the firearms.

It was presented today at the parliament by Samuel Duar Deng, who is the chairperson of the committee of Defense, Security and Public Order.

Some MPs say the bill would lead to proper control of guns while others say it should be discussed further.

54 voted to approve the bill, 34 against, and 13 others abstained.

According to the conduct of business of the assembly, the bill will now be presented at the forth reading, where it may be passed without any more discussion.