Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced a national freeze on the sale, purchase and transfer of handguns in Canada.
The ban, effective immediately, is considered one of the most aggressive Canadian gun control measures in 40 years.
The freeze will also prohibit people from bringing newly acquired handguns into Canada.
“Fewer guns mean safer communities. That’s why the Government of Canada is implementing some of the strongest gun control measures in a generation. Handguns are the weapon of choice in most firearm-related crimes, which is why limiting the number of handguns is a critical part of our plan to protect Canadians from gun violence,” a statement released by The Prime Minister’s Office said.
Trudeau’s government introduced legislation in May that would freeze importing, buying or selling handguns.
According to The Associated Press, Canada already has plans to ban 1,500 types of military-style firearms and offer a mandatory buyback program that will begin at the end of the year.