GUN LAWS OF LEBANON Legislative Decree No. 137 of June 1959 /1/, as amended by Law No. 22 of March 29, 1966 /2/, regulates weapons and ammunition. This decree is composed of six chapters containing 81 articles. The six chapters cover the following areas: 1. Classification of war materials, armaments, ammunition and explosives; 2. Production and trade of war materials, armaments and ammunition; 3. Inventions relating to national defense; 4. Possessing and carrying firearms, ammunition and war materials; 5. Import, sale and possession of gunpowder and explosives; 6. Sanctions. Article 1 of Decree No. 137 divides the various weapons and armaments into 3 groups: 1. war weapons and armaments; 2. non-war weapons and ammunition; and 3. explosives, gunpowder and their accessories. Article 2 of the same decree further divides the above groups into 9 categories. The first group is divided into 4 categories: ----------------- /1/ In Bureau des Documentations Libanaises et Arabes, Les Décrets Législatifes de la Réforme, Beirut, 1959, p. 594 (in French). /2/ In Bureau des Documentations Libanaises et Arabes, Bulletin de Législation Libanaise, No. 30 of April 14, 1966, p. 3 (in French).GUN LAWS OF LEBANON Legislative Decree No. 137 of June 1959 /1/, as amended by Law No. 22 of March 29, 1966 /2/, regulates weapons and ammunition. This decree is composed of six chapters containing 81 articles. The six chapters cover the following areas: 1. Classification of war materials, armaments, ammunition and explosives; 2. Production and trade of war materials, armaments and ammunition; 3. Inventions relating to national defense; 4. Possessing and carrying firearms, ammunition and war materials; 5. Import, sale and possession of gunpowder and explosives; 6. Sanctions. Article 1 of Decree No. 137 divides the various weapons and armaments into 3 groups: 1. war weapons and armaments; 2. non-war weapons and ammunition; and 3. explosives, gunpowder and their accessories. Article 2 of the same decree further divides the above groups into 9 categories. The first group is divided into 4 categories: ----------------- /1/ In Bureau des Documentations Libanaises et Arabes, Les Décrets Législatifes de la Réforme, Beirut, 1959, p. 594 (in French). /2/ In Bureau des Documentations Libanaises et Arabes, Bulletin de Législation Libanaise, No. 30 of April 14, 1966, p. 3 (in French).GUN LAWS OF LEBANON Legislative Decree No. 137 of June 1959 /1/, as amended by Law No. 22 of March 29, 1966 /2/, regulates weapons and ammunition. This decree is composed of six chapters containing 81 articles. The six chapters cover the following areas: 1. Classification of war materials, armaments, ammunition and explosives; 2. Production and trade of war materials, armaments and ammunition; 3. Inventions relating to national defense; 4. Possessing and carrying firearms, ammunition and war materials; 5. Import, sale and possession of gunpowder and explosives; 6. Sanctions. Article 1 of Decree No. 137 divides the various weapons and armaments into 3 groups: 1. war weapons and armaments; 2. non-war weapons and ammunition; and 3. explosives, gunpowder and their accessories. Article 2 of the same decree further divides the above groups into 9 categories. The first group is divided into 4 categories: ----------------- /1/ In Bureau des Documentations Libanaises et Arabes, Les Décrets Législatifes de la Réforme, Beirut, 1959, p. 594 (in French). /2/ In Bureau des Documentations Libanaises et Arabes, Bulletin de Législation Libanaise, No. 30 of April 14, 1966, p. 3 (in French).GUN LAWS OF LEBANON Legislative Decree No. 137 of June 1959 /1/, as amended by Law No. 22 of March 29, 1966 /2/, regulates weapons and ammunition. This decree is composed of six chapters containing 81 articles. The six chapters cover the following areas: 1. Classification of war materials, armaments, ammunition and explosives; 2. Production and trade of war materials, armaments and ammunition; 3. Inventions relating to national defense; 4. Possessing and carrying firearms, ammunition and war materials; 5. Import, sale and possession of gunpowder and explosives; 6. Sanctions. Article 1 of Decree No. 137 divides the various weapons and armaments into 3 groups: 1. war weapons and armaments; 2. non-war weapons and ammunition; and 3. explosives, gunpowder and their accessories. Article 2 of the same decree further divides the above groups into 9 categories. The first group is divided into 4 categories: ----------------- /1/ In Bureau des Documentations Libanaises et Arabes, Les Décrets Législatifes de la Réforme, Beirut, 1959, p. 594 (in French). /2/ In Bureau des Documentations Libanaises et Arabes, Bulletin de Législation Libanaise, No. 30 of April 14, 1966, p. 3 (in French).GUN LAWS OF LEBANON Legislative Decree No. 137 of June 1959 /1/, as amended by Law No. 22 of March 29, 1966 /2/, regulates weapons and ammunition. This decree is composed of six chapters containing 81 articles. The six chapters cover the following areas: 1. Classification of war materials, armaments, ammunition and explosives; 2. Production and trade of war materials, armaments and ammunition; 3. Inventions relating to national defense; 4. Possessing and carrying firearms, ammunition and war materials; 5. Import, sale and possession of gunpowder and explosives; 6. Sanctions. Article 1 of Decree No. 137 divides the various weapons and armaments into 3 groups: 1. war weapons and armaments; 2. non-war weapons and ammunition; and 3. explosives, gunpowder and their accessories. Article 2 of the same decree further divides the above groups into 9 categories. The first group is divided into 4 categories: ----------------- /1/ In Bureau des Documentations Libanaises et Arabes, Les Décrets Législatifes de la Réforme, Beirut, 1959, p. 594 (in French). /2/ In Bureau des Documentations Libanaises et Arabes, Bulletin de Législation Libanaise, No. 30 of April 14, 1966, p. 3 (in French).-2- 1. Arms and ammunition destined for use in war on land, sea or air; 2. Units equipped with firearms or destined for use in time of war; 3. Protection apparatus for use against combat raids; 4. Armaments and ammunition which are not considered materials but which are related to military weapons and ammunition. The second group, which refers to non-war materials, contains the next four categories: 5. Firearms and all other types that are used in game hunting, except for those already mentioned in the preceding four categories; 6. Training arms that fire under pressure without gunpowder; 7. Souvenir and historical arms provided they are no longer valid for use; 8. Prohibited arms, which are not part of those mentioned in the above categories, particularly daggers, knives, etc. and all hidden weapons; The third group includes the final category: 9. Explosives, gunpowder and their accessories. Chapter 2 of Decree No. 137 regulates the manufacturing and commercial aspects of military weapons and ammunition. Article 3 3/ ----------------- 3/ Supra note 1, at 597-2- 1. Arms and ammunition destined for use in war on land, sea or air; 2. Units equipped with firearms or destined for use in time of war; 3. Protection apparatus for use against combat raids; 4. Armaments and ammunition which are not considered materials but which are related to military weapons and ammunition. The second group, which refers to non-war materials, contains the next four categories: 5. Firearms and all other types that are used in game hunting, except for those already mentioned in the preceding four categories; 6. Training arms that fire under pressure without gunpowder; 7. Souvenir and historical arms provided they are no longer valid for use; 8. Prohibited arms, which are not part of those mentioned in the above categories, particularly daggers, knives, etc. and all hidden weapons; The third group includes the final category: 9. Explosives, gunpowder and their accessories. Chapter 2 of Decree No. 137 regulates the manufacturing and commercial aspects of military weapons and ammunition. Article 3 3/ ----------------- 3/ Supra note 1, at 597-2- 1. Arms and ammunition destined for use in war on land, sea or air; 2. Units equipped with firearms or destined for use in time of war; 3. Protection apparatus for use against combat raids; 4. Armaments and ammunition which are not considered materials but which are related to military weapons and ammunition. The second group, which refers to non-war materials, contains the next four categories: 5. Firearms and all other types that are used in game hunting, except for those already mentioned in the preceding four categories; 6. Training arms that fire under pressure without gunpowder; 7. Souvenir and historical arms provided they are no longer valid for use; 8. Prohibited arms, which are not part of those mentioned in the above categories, particularly daggers, knives, etc. and all hidden weapons; The third group includes the final category: 9. Explosives, gunpowder and their accessories. Chapter 2 of Decree No. 137 regulates the manufacturing and commercial aspects of military weapons and ammunition. Article 3 3/ ----------------- 3/ Supra note 1, at 597-2- 1. Arms and ammunition destined for use in war on land, sea or air; 2. Units equipped with firearms or destined for use in time of war; 3. Protection apparatus for use against combat raids; 4. Armaments and ammunition which are not considered materials but which are related to military weapons and ammunition. The second group, which refers to non-war materials, contains the next four categories: 5. Firearms and all other types that are used in game hunting, except for those already mentioned in the preceding four categories; 6. Training arms that fire under pressure without gunpowder; 7. Souvenir and historical arms provided they are no longer valid for use; 8. Prohibited arms, which are not part of those mentioned in the above categories, particularly daggers, knives, etc. and all hidden weapons; The third group includes the final category: 9. Explosives, gunpowder and their accessories. Chapter 2 of Decree No. 137 regulates the manufacturing and commercial aspects of military weapons and ammunition. Article 3 3/ ----------------- 3/ Supra note 1, at 597-2- 1. Arms and ammunition destined for use in war on land, sea or air; 2. Units equipped with firearms or destined for use in time of war; 3. Protection apparatus for use against combat raids; 4. Armaments and ammunition which are not considered materials but which are related to military weapons and ammunition. The second group, which refers to non-war materials, contains the next four categories: 5. Firearms and all other types that are used in game hunting, except for those already mentioned in the preceding four categories; 6. Training arms that fire under pressure without gunpowder; 7. Souvenir and historical arms provided they are no longer valid for use; 8. Prohibited arms, which are not part of those mentioned in the above categories, particularly daggers, knives, etc. and all hidden weapons; The third group includes the final category: 9. Explosives, gunpowder and their accessories. Chapter 2 of Decree No. 137 regulates the manufacturing and commercial aspects of military weapons and ammunition. Article 3 3/ ----------------- 3/ Supra note 1, at 597- 3 - provides the following: No person or group of persons is allowed to engage in any industrial or commercial activities, no matter what type, which are related to war materials, weapons and ammunition of all categories on Lebanese territory, before obtaining a regular license from the Ministry of the Interior and after approval from the Council of Ministers. Once the license mentioned above is obtained, those engaged in the manufacturing and commercial aspects of weapons and ammunition must adhere to the conditions specified in Article 16 /4/ which reads as follows: The owners of the industrial establishments engaged in production of war materials and ammunition should inform the Ministries of the Interior and National Defense about the quantities manufactured within eight days following the completion of these works. They should record in a special register all materials, armaments, ammunition and spare parts that have been manufactured; this register is subject to the control of the Ministries of the Interior and National Defense. . . The importation and exportation of war materials are covered by Article 17 /5/ of the same decree: The importation, exportation and reexportation of war materials, weapons, ammunition, dismantled articles and all products mentioned in the first four categories shall be licensed by the Ministry of Economy after being approved by the Ministry of National Defense (Army Command) and the Council of Ministers. ------------------- /4/ Id. at 600 /5/ Id. - 3 - provides the following: No person or group of persons is allowed to engage in any industrial or commercial activities, no matter what type, which are related to war materials, weapons and ammunition of all categories on Lebanese territory, before obtaining a regular license from the Ministry of the Interior and after approval from the Council of Ministers. Once the license mentioned above is obtained, those engaged in the manufacturing and commercial aspects of weapons and ammunition must adhere to the conditions specified in Article 16 /4/ which reads as follows: The owners of the industrial establishments engaged in production of war materials and ammunition should inform the Ministries of the Interior and National Defense about the quantities manufactured within eight days following the completion of these works. They should record in a special register all materials, armaments, ammunition and spare parts that have been manufactured; this register is subject to the control of the Ministries of the Interior and National Defense. . . The importation and exportation of war materials are covered by Article 17 /5/ of the same decree: The importation, exportation and reexportation of war materials, weapons, ammunition, dismantled articles and all products mentioned in the first four categories shall be licensed by the Ministry of Economy after being approved by the Ministry of National Defense (Army Command) and the Council of Ministers. ------------------- /4/ Id. at 600 /5/ Id. - 3 - provides the following: No person or group of persons is allowed to engage in any industrial or commercial activities, no matter what type, which are related to war materials, weapons and ammunition of all categories on Lebanese territory, before obtaining a regular license from the Ministry of the Interior and after approval from the Council of Ministers. Once the license mentioned above is obtained, those engaged in the manufacturing and commercial aspects of weapons and ammunition must adhere to the conditions specified in Article 16 /4/ which reads as follows: The owners of the industrial establishments engaged in production of war materials and ammunition should inform the Ministries of the Interior and National Defense about the quantities manufactured within eight days following the completion of these works. They should record in a special register all materials, armaments, ammunition and spare parts that have been manufactured; this register is subject to the control of the Ministries of the Interior and National Defense. . . The importation and exportation of war materials are covered by Article 17 /5/ of the same decree: The importation, exportation and reexportation of war materials, weapons, ammunition, dismantled articles and all products mentioned in the first four categories shall be licensed by the Ministry of Economy after being approved by the Ministry of National Defense (Army Command) and the Council of Ministers. ------------------- /4/ Id. at 600 /5/ Id. - 3 - provides the following: No person or group of persons is allowed to engage in any industrial or commercial activities, no matter what type, which are related to war materials, weapons and ammunition of all categories on Lebanese territory, before obtaining a regular license from the Ministry of the Interior and after approval from the Council of Ministers. Once the license mentioned above is obtained, those engaged in the manufacturing and commercial aspects of weapons and ammunition must adhere to the conditions specified in Article 16 /4/ which reads as follows: The owners of the industrial establishments engaged in production of war materials and ammunition should inform the Ministries of the Interior and National Defense about the quantities manufactured within eight days following the completion of these works. They should record in a special register all materials, armaments, ammunition and spare parts that have been manufactured; this register is subject to the control of the Ministries of the Interior and National Defense. . . The importation and exportation of war materials are covered by Article 17 /5/ of the same decree: The importation, exportation and reexportation of war materials, weapons, ammunition, dismantled articles and all products mentioned in the first four categories shall be licensed by the Ministry of Economy after being approved by the Ministry of National Defense (Army Command) and the Council of Ministers. ------------------- /4/ Id. at 600 /5/ Id. - 3 - provides the following: No person or group of persons is allowed to engage in any industrial or commercial activities, no matter what type, which are related to war materials, weapons and ammunition of all categories on Lebanese territory, before obtaining a regular license from the Ministry of the Interior and after approval from the Council of Ministers. Once the license mentioned above is obtained, those engaged in the manufacturing and commercial aspects of weapons and ammunition must adhere to the conditions specified in Article 16 /4/ which reads as follows: The owners of the industrial establishments engaged in production of war materials and ammunition should inform the Ministries of the Interior and National Defense about the quantities manufactured within eight days following the completion of these works. They should record in a special register all materials, armaments, ammunition and spare parts that have been manufactured; this register is subject to the control of the Ministries of the Interior and National Defense. . . The importation and exportation of war materials are covered by Article 17 /5/ of the same decree: The importation, exportation and reexportation of war materials, weapons, ammunition, dismantled articles and all products mentioned in the first four categories shall be licensed by the Ministry of Economy after being approved by the Ministry of National Defense (Army Command) and the Council of Ministers. ------------------- /4/ Id. at 600 /5/ Id. -4- Game hunting weapons and their ammunition, like the armaments and products mentioned in the other five categories, are subject to a preliminary license from the Ministry of National Economy and approved by the Ministry of the Interior. Legislative Decree No. 137 also restricts the possession and carrying of firearms including revolvers, pistols and all weapons which may be utilized as war materials, such as those listed in the fourth category. Ownership of game hunting weapons is also restricted by this decree. Article 24 6/ of chapter 4 states: It is prohibited for anyone to transport or to possess within Lebanese territory weapons and ammunition described in the fourth category as long as he has not obtained a permit from the Commander of the Army. The Caimacam has the right to give permits pertaining to game hunting weapons. 7/ The permits for carrying and possessing weapons of the fifth category is personal; it is granted only once, and its validity does not expire until its holder is deceased or when he no longer meets the qualifying conditions as provided in the present legislative decree. The permit for carrying and possessing firearms and ammunition of the fourth category is granted for one year and is renewable. Article 25 8/ of the same decree contains additional provisions in regard to possession and carrying of weapons and ammunition: No one is authorized to keep, possess, or carry materials, arms and ammunition under the first 6/ Id. at 601. 7/ The Caimacam is equivalent to County Chief 8/ Id. at 602.-4- Game hunting weapons and their ammunition, like the armaments and products mentioned in the other five categories, are subject to a preliminary license from the Ministry of National Economy and approved by the Ministry of the Interior. Legislative Decree No. 137 also restricts the possession and carrying of firearms including revolvers, pistols and all weapons which may be utilized as war materials, such as those listed in the fourth category. Ownership of game hunting weapons is also restricted by this decree. Article 24 6/ of chapter 4 states: It is prohibited for anyone to transport or to possess within Lebanese territory weapons and ammunition described in the fourth category as long as he has not obtained a permit from the Commander of the Army. The Caimacam has the right to give permits pertaining to game hunting weapons. 7/ The permits for carrying and possessing weapons of the fifth category is personal; it is granted only once, and its validity does not expire until its holder is deceased or when he no longer meets the qualifying conditions as provided in the present legislative decree. The permit for carrying and possessing firearms and ammunition of the fourth category is granted for one year and is renewable. Article 25 8/ of the same decree contains additional provisions in regard to possession and carrying of weapons and ammunition: No one is authorized to keep, possess, or carry materials, arms and ammunition under the first 6/ Id. at 601. 7/ The Caimacam is equivalent to County Chief 8/ Id. at 602.-4- Game hunting weapons and their ammunition, like the armaments and products mentioned in the other five categories, are subject to a preliminary license from the Ministry of National Economy and approved by the Ministry of the Interior. Legislative Decree No. 137 also restricts the possession and carrying of firearms including revolvers, pistols and all weapons which may be utilized as war materials, such as those listed in the fourth category. Ownership of game hunting weapons is also restricted by this decree. Article 24 6/ of chapter 4 states: It is prohibited for anyone to transport or to possess within Lebanese territory weapons and ammunition described in the fourth category as long as he has not obtained a permit from the Commander of the Army. The Caimacam has the right to give permits pertaining to game hunting weapons. 7/ The permits for carrying and possessing weapons of the fifth category is personal; it is granted only once, and its validity does not expire until its holder is deceased or when he no longer meets the qualifying conditions as provided in the present legislative decree. The permit for carrying and possessing firearms and ammunition of the fourth category is granted for one year and is renewable. Article 25 8/ of the same decree contains additional provisions in regard to possession and carrying of weapons and ammunition: No one is authorized to keep, possess, or carry materials, arms and ammunition under the first 6/ Id. at 601. 7/ The Caimacam is equivalent to County Chief 8/ Id. at 602.-4- Game hunting weapons and their ammunition, like the armaments and products mentioned in the other five categories, are subject to a preliminary license from the Ministry of National Economy and approved by the Ministry of the Interior. Legislative Decree No. 137 also restricts the possession and carrying of firearms including revolvers, pistols and all weapons which may be utilized as war materials, such as those listed in the fourth category. Ownership of game hunting weapons is also restricted by this decree. Article 24 6/ of chapter 4 states: It is prohibited for anyone to transport or to possess within Lebanese territory weapons and ammunition described in the fourth category as long as he has not obtained a permit from the Commander of the Army. The Caimacam has the right to give permits pertaining to game hunting weapons. 7/ The permits for carrying and possessing weapons of the fifth category is personal; it is granted only once, and its validity does not expire until its holder is deceased or when he no longer meets the qualifying conditions as provided in the present legislative decree. The permit for carrying and possessing firearms and ammunition of the fourth category is granted for one year and is renewable. Article 25 8/ of the same decree contains additional provisions in regard to possession and carrying of weapons and ammunition: No one is authorized to keep, possess, or carry materials, arms and ammunition under the first 6/ Id. at 601. 7/ The Caimacam is equivalent to County Chief 8/ Id. at 602.-4- Game hunting weapons and their ammunition, like the armaments and products mentioned in the other five categories, are subject to a preliminary license from the Ministry of National Economy and approved by the Ministry of the Interior. Legislative Decree No. 137 also restricts the possession and carrying of firearms including revolvers, pistols and all weapons which may be utilized as war materials, such as those listed in the fourth category. Ownership of game hunting weapons is also restricted by this decree. Article 24 6/ of chapter 4 states: It is prohibited for anyone to transport or to possess within Lebanese territory weapons and ammunition described in the fourth category as long as he has not obtained a permit from the Commander of the Army. The Caimacam has the right to give permits pertaining to game hunting weapons. 7/ The permits for carrying and possessing weapons of the fifth category is personal; it is granted only once, and its validity does not expire until its holder is deceased or when he no longer meets the qualifying conditions as provided in the present legislative decree. The permit for carrying and possessing firearms and ammunition of the fourth category is granted for one year and is renewable. Article 25 8/ of the same decree contains additional provisions in regard to possession and carrying of weapons and ammunition: No one is authorized to keep, possess, or carry materials, arms and ammunition under the first 6/ Id. at 601. 7/ The Caimacam is equivalent to County Chief 8/ Id. at 602.-5- and second categories except in case of social disorder, or in the cases provided in Chapter 2 pertaining to the manufacturing and commercial aspects of these materials, and this is so in certain conditions only. The authorization is granted by an order from the Minister of National Defense. However, the Lebanese military personnel of the land, sea and air armed forces, of the Gendarmerie and of the Police may carry materials and ammunition of all categories, within the limit of their duties and in conformity with the regulations and military laws. Sale and transfer of firearms and ammunition by the holders of the permits is strictly forbidden according to Article 27: 9/ The holders of permits to possess and carry firearms and ammunition cannot sell or transfer these on an onerous or free of charge basis, except when the purchaser himself has a permit. Carrying and possessing firearms and ammunition of the sixth category is authorized; identity cards may substitute as permits. Weapons of the seventh and eight categories may be owned, but carrying them is prohibited. Release of the appropriate permit is forbidden in all cases. Knives especially imported for use by scout teams are exempt [from these restrictions]. Article 29 10/ of decree No. 137 provides that only individuals 18 years old or over may be granted licenses for possessing and carrying weapons and ammunition. In addition, mentally unstable persons and convicted criminals cannot acquire permits to possess and carry weapons. 9/ Id. 10/ Id. at 603.-5- and second categories except in case of social disorder, or in the cases provided in Chapter 2 pertaining to the manufacturing and commercial aspects of these materials, and this is so in certain conditions only. The authorization is granted by an order from the Minister of National Defense. However, the Lebanese military personnel of the land, sea and air armed forces, of the Gendarmerie and of the Police may carry materials and ammunition of all categories, within the limit of their duties and in conformity with the regulations and military laws. Sale and transfer of firearms and ammunition by the holders of the permits is strictly forbidden according to Article 27: 9/ The holders of permits to possess and carry firearms and ammunition cannot sell or transfer these on an onerous or free of charge basis, except when the purchaser himself has a permit. Carrying and possessing firearms and ammunition of the sixth category is authorized; identity cards may substitute as permits. Weapons of the seventh and eight categories may be owned, but carrying them is prohibited. Release of the appropriate permit is forbidden in all cases. Knives especially imported for use by scout teams are exempt [from these restrictions]. Article 29 10/ of decree No. 137 provides that only individuals 18 years old or over may be granted licenses for possessing and carrying weapons and ammunition. In addition, mentally unstable persons and convicted criminals cannot acquire permits to possess and carry weapons. 9/ Id. 10/ Id. at 603.-5- and second categories except in case of social disorder, or in the cases provided in Chapter 2 pertaining to the manufacturing and commercial aspects of these materials, and this is so in certain conditions only. The authorization is granted by an order from the Minister of National Defense. However, the Lebanese military personnel of the land, sea and air armed forces, of the Gendarmerie and of the Police may carry materials and ammunition of all categories, within the limit of their duties and in conformity with the regulations and military laws. Sale and transfer of firearms and ammunition by the holders of the permits is strictly forbidden according to Article 27: 9/ The holders of permits to possess and carry firearms and ammunition cannot sell or transfer these on an onerous or free of charge basis, except when the purchaser himself has a permit. Carrying and possessing firearms and ammunition of the sixth category is authorized; identity cards may substitute as permits. Weapons of the seventh and eight categories may be owned, but carrying them is prohibited. Release of the appropriate permit is forbidden in all cases. Knives especially imported for use by scout teams are exempt [from these restrictions]. Article 29 10/ of decree No. 137 provides that only individuals 18 years old or over may be granted licenses for possessing and carrying weapons and ammunition. In addition, mentally unstable persons and convicted criminals cannot acquire permits to possess and carry weapons. 9/ Id. 10/ Id. at 603.-5- and second categories except in case of social disorder, or in the cases provided in Chapter 2 pertaining to the manufacturing and commercial aspects of these materials, and this is so in certain conditions only. The authorization is granted by an order from the Minister of National Defense. However, the Lebanese military personnel of the land, sea and air armed forces, of the Gendarmerie and of the Police may carry materials and ammunition of all categories, within the limit of their duties and in conformity with the regulations and military laws. Sale and transfer of firearms and ammunition by the holders of the permits is strictly forbidden according to Article 27: 9/ The holders of permits to possess and carry firearms and ammunition cannot sell or transfer these on an onerous or free of charge basis, except when the purchaser himself has a permit. Carrying and possessing firearms and ammunition of the sixth category is authorized; identity cards may substitute as permits. Weapons of the seventh and eight categories may be owned, but carrying them is prohibited. Release of the appropriate permit is forbidden in all cases. Knives especially imported for use by scout teams are exempt [from these restrictions]. Article 29 10/ of decree No. 137 provides that only individuals 18 years old or over may be granted licenses for possessing and carrying weapons and ammunition. In addition, mentally unstable persons and convicted criminals cannot acquire permits to possess and carry weapons. 9/ Id. 10/ Id. at 603.-5- and second categories except in case of social disorder, or in the cases provided in Chapter 2 pertaining to the manufacturing and commercial aspects of these materials, and this is so in certain conditions only. The authorization is granted by an order from the Minister of National Defense. However, the Lebanese military personnel of the land, sea and air armed forces, of the Gendarmerie and of the Police may carry materials and ammunition of all categories, within the limit of their duties and in conformity with the regulations and military laws. Sale and transfer of firearms and ammunition by the holders of the permits is strictly forbidden according to Article 27: 9/ The holders of permits to possess and carry firearms and ammunition cannot sell or transfer these on an onerous or free of charge basis, except when the purchaser himself has a permit. Carrying and possessing firearms and ammunition of the sixth category is authorized; identity cards may substitute as permits. Weapons of the seventh and eight categories may be owned, but carrying them is prohibited. Release of the appropriate permit is forbidden in all cases. Knives especially imported for use by scout teams are exempt [from these restrictions]. Article 29 10/ of decree No. 137 provides that only individuals 18 years old or over may be granted licenses for possessing and carrying weapons and ammunition. In addition, mentally unstable persons and convicted criminals cannot acquire permits to possess and carry weapons. 9/ Id. 10/ Id. at 603.-6- The law also provides that the Ministry of National Defense may withdraw or suspend any permit, except permits for game hunting weapons, at any time upon a report submitted by the appropriate authorities, or in order to maintain public order. In case of withdrawal or annulment of the permit, the weapon is confiscated and the annual tax shall not be reimbursed. Retailers are forbidden to sell or dispose of any firearm and ammunition of the first category without being sure that the interested party has a legal permit authorizing him to conclude such a transaction. The dealer must record in his business register information as to the model, number and make of the firearm sold. Chapter 5 of the Legislative Decree No. 137 contains provisions regarding importation, sale and possession of gunpowder and explosives. The State has monopoly over importation, possession and sale of gunpowder and explosives of all types and all similar products. The Ministry of National Defense, through its technicians, supervises all establishments engaged in the production, preparation, and sale of gunpowder and explosives. It also inspects all warehouses and depots reserved for keeping these materials and assimilated products. The law also provides that anyone who introduces or tries to introduce into Lebanon gunpowder, explosives or any similar product shall be liable to proceedings in accordance with the sanctions concerning contraband and the criminal code provisions. However, retailers-6- The law also provides that the Ministry of National Defense may withdraw or suspend any permit, except permits for game hunting weapons, at any time upon a report submitted by the appropriate authorities, or in order to maintain public order. In case of withdrawal or annulment of the permit, the weapon is confiscated and the annual tax shall not be reimbursed. Retailers are forbidden to sell or dispose of any firearm and ammunition of the first category without being sure that the interested party has a legal permit authorizing him to conclude such a transaction. The dealer must record in his business register information as to the model, number and make of the firearm sold. Chapter 5 of the Legislative Decree No. 137 contains provisions regarding importation, sale and possession of gunpowder and explosives. The State has monopoly over importation, possession and sale of gunpowder and explosives of all types and all similar products. The Ministry of National Defense, through its technicians, supervises all establishments engaged in the production, preparation, and sale of gunpowder and explosives. It also inspects all warehouses and depots reserved for keeping these materials and assimilated products. The law also provides that anyone who introduces or tries to introduce into Lebanon gunpowder, explosives or any similar product shall be liable to proceedings in accordance with the sanctions concerning contraband and the criminal code provisions. However, retailers-6- The law also provides that the Ministry of National Defense may withdraw or suspend any permit, except permits for game hunting weapons, at any time upon a report submitted by the appropriate authorities, or in order to maintain public order. In case of withdrawal or annulment of the permit, the weapon is confiscated and the annual tax shall not be reimbursed. Retailers are forbidden to sell or dispose of any firearm and ammunition of the first category without being sure that the interested party has a legal permit authorizing him to conclude such a transaction. The dealer must record in his business register information as to the model, number and make of the firearm sold. Chapter 5 of the Legislative Decree No. 137 contains provisions regarding importation, sale and possession of gunpowder and explosives. The State has monopoly over importation, possession and sale of gunpowder and explosives of all types and all similar products. The Ministry of National Defense, through its technicians, supervises all establishments engaged in the production, preparation, and sale of gunpowder and explosives. It also inspects all warehouses and depots reserved for keeping these materials and assimilated products. The law also provides that anyone who introduces or tries to introduce into Lebanon gunpowder, explosives or any similar product shall be liable to proceedings in accordance with the sanctions concerning contraband and the criminal code provisions. However, retailers-6- The law also provides that the Ministry of National Defense may withdraw or suspend any permit, except permits for game hunting weapons, at any time upon a report submitted by the appropriate authorities, or in order to maintain public order. In case of withdrawal or annulment of the permit, the weapon is confiscated and the annual tax shall not be reimbursed. Retailers are forbidden to sell or dispose of any firearm and ammunition of the first category without being sure that the interested party has a legal permit authorizing him to conclude such a transaction. The dealer must record in his business register information as to the model, number and make of the firearm sold. Chapter 5 of the Legislative Decree No. 137 contains provisions regarding importation, sale and possession of gunpowder and explosives. The State has monopoly over importation, possession and sale of gunpowder and explosives of all types and all similar products. The Ministry of National Defense, through its technicians, supervises all establishments engaged in the production, preparation, and sale of gunpowder and explosives. It also inspects all warehouses and depots reserved for keeping these materials and assimilated products. The law also provides that anyone who introduces or tries to introduce into Lebanon gunpowder, explosives or any similar product shall be liable to proceedings in accordance with the sanctions concerning contraband and the criminal code provisions. However, retailers-6- The law also provides that the Ministry of National Defense may withdraw or suspend any permit, except permits for game hunting weapons, at any time upon a report submitted by the appropriate authorities, or in order to maintain public order. In case of withdrawal or annulment of the permit, the weapon is confiscated and the annual tax shall not be reimbursed. Retailers are forbidden to sell or dispose of any firearm and ammunition of the first category without being sure that the interested party has a legal permit authorizing him to conclude such a transaction. The dealer must record in his business register information as to the model, number and make of the firearm sold. Chapter 5 of the Legislative Decree No. 137 contains provisions regarding importation, sale and possession of gunpowder and explosives. The State has monopoly over importation, possession and sale of gunpowder and explosives of all types and all similar products. The Ministry of National Defense, through its technicians, supervises all establishments engaged in the production, preparation, and sale of gunpowder and explosives. It also inspects all warehouses and depots reserved for keeping these materials and assimilated products. The law also provides that anyone who introduces or tries to introduce into Lebanon gunpowder, explosives or any similar product shall be liable to proceedings in accordance with the sanctions concerning contraband and the criminal code provisions. However, retailers- 7 - may sell gunpowder for hunting purposes to anyone who holds a game hunting firearms license. Articles 72, 73 and 79 of Chapter 6 of Legislative Decree No. 137, as amended by Law No. 22 of March 29, 1966, specify penalties for violators of the provisions detailed above. Art. 72. Anyone who manufactures without authorization materials, armaments and ammunition or their detached parts of the first four categories shall be punished with imprisonment for six months to three years and a fine of 1000 to 5000 Lebanese Liras (L.L.), or either penalty only. Possession of the said materials, armaments and ammunition, their purchase, importation or stealing is punishable by the same penalties. Anyone who carries, without permit, the arms mentioned in the previous paragraphs, or transports ammunition or detached parts of armaments shall be punished with imprisonment for six months to two years. In case of use of transported war materials, the penalty cannot be less than imprisonment for one month and any postponement is forbidden. In addition, the court may order interdiction against bearing military firearms in this case. Art. 73. Every infraction of the provisions of the present Legislative Decree which does not constitute the object of imprisonment for one month to six months and a fine of 100 to 1000 L.L., or either penalty only. According to Article 79, whoever commits the crimes described in Articles 72 and 73 and crimes related to military armaments shall be deferred to a military court. - 7 - may sell gunpowder for hunting purposes to anyone who holds a game hunting firearms license. Articles 72, 73 and 79 of Chapter 6 of Legislative Decree No. 137, as amended by Law No. 22 of March 29, 1966, specify penalties for violators of the provisions detailed above. Art. 72. Anyone who manufactures without authorization materials, armaments and ammunition or their detached parts of the first four categories shall be punished with imprisonment for six months to three years and a fine of 1000 to 5000 Lebanese Liras (L.L.), or either penalty only. Possession of the said materials, armaments and ammunition, their purchase, importation or stealing is punishable by the same penalties. Anyone who carries, without permit, the arms mentioned in the previous paragraphs, or transports ammunition or detached parts of armaments shall be punished with imprisonment for six months to two years. In case of use of transported war materials, the penalty cannot be less than imprisonment for one month and any postponement is forbidden. In addition, the court may order interdiction against bearing military firearms in this case. Art. 73. Every infraction of the provisions of the present Legislative Decree which does not constitute the object of imprisonment for one month to six months and a fine of 100 to 1000 L.L., or either penalty only. According to Article 79, whoever commits the crimes described in Articles 72 and 73 and crimes related to military armaments shall be deferred to a military court. - 7 - may sell gunpowder for hunting purposes to anyone who holds a game hunting firearms license. Articles 72, 73 and 79 of Chapter 6 of Legislative Decree No. 137, as amended by Law No. 22 of March 29, 1966, specify penalties for violators of the provisions detailed above. Art. 72. Anyone who manufactures without authorization materials, armaments and ammunition or their detached parts of the first four categories shall be punished with imprisonment for six months to three years and a fine of 1000 to 5000 Lebanese Liras (L.L.), or either penalty only. Possession of the said materials, armaments and ammunition, their purchase, importation or stealing is punishable by the same penalties. Anyone who carries, without permit, the arms mentioned in the previous paragraphs, or transports ammunition or detached parts of armaments shall be punished with imprisonment for six months to two years. In case of use of transported war materials, the penalty cannot be less than imprisonment for one month and any postponement is forbidden. In addition, the court may order interdiction against bearing military firearms in this case. Art. 73. Every infraction of the provisions of the present Legislative Decree which does not constitute the object of imprisonment for one month to six months and a fine of 100 to 1000 L.L., or either penalty only. According to Article 79, whoever commits the crimes described in Articles 72 and 73 and crimes related to military armaments shall be deferred to a military court. - 7 - may sell gunpowder for hunting purposes to anyone who holds a game hunting firearms license. Articles 72, 73 and 79 of Chapter 6 of Legislative Decree No. 137, as amended by Law No. 22 of March 29, 1966, specify penalties for violators of the provisions detailed above. Art. 72. Anyone who manufactures without authorization materials, armaments and ammunition or their detached parts of the first four categories shall be punished with imprisonment for six months to three years and a fine of 1000 to 5000 Lebanese Liras (L.L.), or either penalty only. Possession of the said materials, armaments and ammunition, their purchase, importation or stealing is punishable by the same penalties. Anyone who carries, without permit, the arms mentioned in the previous paragraphs, or transports ammunition or detached parts of armaments shall be punished with imprisonment for six months to two years. In case of use of transported war materials, the penalty cannot be less than imprisonment for one month and any postponement is forbidden. In addition, the court may order interdiction against bearing military firearms in this case. Art. 73. Every infraction of the provisions of the present Legislative Decree which does not constitute the object of imprisonment for one month to six months and a fine of 100 to 1000 L.L., or either penalty only. According to Article 79, whoever commits the crimes described in Articles 72 and 73 and crimes related to military armaments shall be deferred to a military court. - 7 - may sell gunpowder for hunting purposes to anyone who holds a game hunting firearms license. Articles 72, 73 and 79 of Chapter 6 of Legislative Decree No. 137, as amended by Law No. 22 of March 29, 1966, specify penalties for violators of the provisions detailed above. Art. 72. Anyone who manufactures without authorization materials, armaments and ammunition or their detached parts of the first four categories shall be punished with imprisonment for six months to three years and a fine of 1000 to 5000 Lebanese Liras (L.L.), or either penalty only. Possession of the said materials, armaments and ammunition, their purchase, importation or stealing is punishable by the same penalties. Anyone who carries, without permit, the arms mentioned in the previous paragraphs, or transports ammunition or detached parts of armaments shall be punished with imprisonment for six months to two years. In case of use of transported war materials, the penalty cannot be less than imprisonment for one month and any postponement is forbidden. In addition, the court may order interdiction against bearing military firearms in this case. Art. 73. Every infraction of the provisions of the present Legislative Decree which does not constitute the object of imprisonment for one month to six months and a fine of 100 to 1000 L.L., or either penalty only. According to Article 79, whoever commits the crimes described in Articles 72 and 73 and crimes related to military armaments shall be deferred to a military court. -8- Title II, Chapter I of the Lebanese Penal Code defines 11/ armed individuals or group of individuals as those who carry hidden weapons. Weapons are defined as every sharp, piercing or pointed instrument or machines which may pose a threat to public security. The Penal Code provides for imprisonment for not more than six months and a fine of 25 L.L. for any individual who carried or possessed the following objects without a permit: 1. Firearms or ammunition which require previous official authorization; 2. One or many detached pieces which may be used either for mounting, repairing or as spare parts for armaments. Possessing and carrying without a permit ammunition, war materials, or detached parts or armaments carries the penalty of imprisonment for one month to two years and a fine of 10 L.L. to 100 L.L. Individuals who possessed or carried armaments and ammunition in order to commit a crime are punishable by imprisonment for one to three years with obligation to work, and a fine of 50 L.L. to 300 L.L. Finally, any person who has been found carrying out of his residence and without a justifiable motive an illegal weapon shall be punished with imprisonment for no less than 6 months and a 25 L.L. fine. 11/ Legislative Decree No. 340. In J. Sader, Code Penal, Beyrouth 1945, p. 70 (in French). Prepared by Dr. Yorguy Hakim Legal Specialist Near Eastern and African Law Division Law Library, Library of Congress August 1976 YH: at 8-6-76-8- Title II, Chapter I of the Lebanese Penal Code defines 11/ armed individuals or group of individuals as those who carry hidden weapons. Weapons are defined as every sharp, piercing or pointed instrument or machines which may pose a threat to public security. The Penal Code provides for imprisonment for not more than six months and a fine of 25 L.L. for any individual who carried or possessed the following objects without a permit: 1. Firearms or ammunition which require previous official authorization; 2. One or many detached pieces which may be used either for mounting, repairing or as spare parts for armaments. Possessing and carrying without a permit ammunition, war materials, or detached parts or armaments carries the penalty of imprisonment for one month to two years and a fine of 10 L.L. to 100 L.L. Individuals who possessed or carried armaments and ammunition in order to commit a crime are punishable by imprisonment for one to three years with obligation to work, and a fine of 50 L.L. to 300 L.L. Finally, any person who has been found carrying out of his residence and without a justifiable motive an illegal weapon shall be punished with imprisonment for no less than 6 months and a 25 L.L. fine. 11/ Legislative Decree No. 340. In J. Sader, Code Penal, Beyrouth 1945, p. 70 (in French). Prepared by Dr. Yorguy Hakim Legal Specialist Near Eastern and African Law Division Law Library, Library of Congress August 1976 YH: at 8-6-76-8- Title II, Chapter I of the Lebanese Penal Code defines 11/ armed individuals or group of individuals as those who carry hidden weapons. Weapons are defined as every sharp, piercing or pointed instrument or machines which may pose a threat to public security. The Penal Code provides for imprisonment for not more than six months and a fine of 25 L.L. for any individual who carried or possessed the following objects without a permit: 1. Firearms or ammunition which require previous official authorization; 2. One or many detached pieces which may be used either for mounting, repairing or as spare parts for armaments. Possessing and carrying without a permit ammunition, war materials, or detached parts or armaments carries the penalty of imprisonment for one month to two years and a fine of 10 L.L. to 100 L.L. Individuals who possessed or carried armaments and ammunition in order to commit a crime are punishable by imprisonment for one to three years with obligation to work, and a fine of 50 L.L. to 300 L.L. Finally, any person who has been found carrying out of his residence and without a justifiable motive an illegal weapon shall be punished with imprisonment for no less than 6 months and a 25 L.L. fine. 11/ Legislative Decree No. 340. In J. Sader, Code Penal, Beyrouth 1945, p. 70 (in French). Prepared by Dr. Yorguy Hakim Legal Specialist Near Eastern and African Law Division Law Library, Library of Congress August 1976 YH: at 8-6-76-8- Title II, Chapter I of the Lebanese Penal Code defines 11/ armed individuals or group of individuals as those who carry hidden weapons. Weapons are defined as every sharp, piercing or pointed instrument or machines which may pose a threat to public security. The Penal Code provides for imprisonment for not more than six months and a fine of 25 L.L. for any individual who carried or possessed the following objects without a permit: 1. Firearms or ammunition which require previous official authorization; 2. One or many detached pieces which may be used either for mounting, repairing or as spare parts for armaments. Possessing and carrying without a permit ammunition, war materials, or detached parts or armaments carries the penalty of imprisonment for one month to two years and a fine of 10 L.L. to 100 L.L. Individuals who possessed or carried armaments and ammunition in order to commit a crime are punishable by imprisonment for one to three years with obligation to work, and a fine of 50 L.L. to 300 L.L. Finally, any person who has been found carrying out of his residence and without a justifiable motive an illegal weapon shall be punished with imprisonment for no less than 6 months and a 25 L.L. fine. 11/ Legislative Decree No. 340. In J. Sader, Code Penal, Beyrouth 1945, p. 70 (in French). Prepared by Dr. Yorguy Hakim Legal Specialist Near Eastern and African Law Division Law Library, Library of Congress August 1976 YH: at 8-6-76-8- Title II, Chapter I of the Lebanese Penal Code defines 11/ armed individuals or group of individuals as those who carry hidden weapons. Weapons are defined as every sharp, piercing or pointed instrument or machines which may pose a threat to public security. The Penal Code provides for imprisonment for not more than six months and a fine of 25 L.L. for any individual who carried or possessed the following objects without a permit: 1. Firearms or ammunition which require previous official authorization; 2. One or many detached pieces which may be used either for mounting, repairing or as spare parts for armaments. Possessing and carrying without a permit ammunition, war materials, or detached parts or armaments carries the penalty of imprisonment for one month to two years and a fine of 10 L.L. to 100 L.L. Individuals who possessed or carried armaments and ammunition in order to commit a crime are punishable by imprisonment for one to three years with obligation to work, and a fine of 50 L.L. to 300 L.L. Finally, any person who has been found carrying out of his residence and without a justifiable motive an illegal weapon shall be punished with imprisonment for no less than 6 months and a 25 L.L. fine. 11/ Legislative Decree No. 340. In J. Sader, Code Penal, Beyrouth 1945, p. 70 (in French). Prepared by Dr. Yorguy Hakim Legal Specialist Near Eastern and African Law Division Law Library, Library of Congress August 1976 YH: at 8-6-76