Czech Senate approves ban on armed paramilitary groups

The Senate has approved a bill to outlaw the establishment, organization and participation in armed paramilitary groups to promote political or ideological goals.

Proposed sanctions include a fine of up to CZK 200,000 and loss of a firearms license. However, the bill also envisions voluntary training courses under state supervision for gun owners, who could aid the Czech Army if the country were threatened.

The draft law also explicitly allows members of the armed security forces and police to carry service and personal weapons when not on duty.