Teen buys shotgun with fake license, prompting reforms

The case of Nicholas Prosper, a teenager who killed three family members, has raised serious concerns about gun laws in the UK. Prosper was able to buy a shotgun using a fake licence, prompting calls for the Home Secretary to review current firearms regulations. John Tizard, Bedfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner, wrote to Home Secretary Yvette Cooper about the need for urgent reforms. He stated that the case reveals "major system failure" in how guns are sold. Prosper purchased the shotgun and 100 cartridges online after pretending to be interested in clay pigeon shooting. He met the seller in a car park and paid £650 for the weapon. Less than a day later, Prosper used the shotgun to murder his mother, brother, and sister. Detective Chief Inspector Sam Khanna revealed that Prosper had extensively researched how to create a fake gun licence. He managed to deceive the seller into thinking he was a legitimate firearms licence holder. Tizard has suggested that potential gun buyers provide documented confirmation from police before making a purchase. He believes a national database of firearm licence holders would help improve safety. Tizard emphasized the need for stricter regulations to protect the public and enhance trust in firearm licensing practices. Under current UK law, individuals must demonstrate they do not pose a threat to public safety to obtain a firearms licence. Applicants for shotguns don’t need a specific reason for ownership, but they must still go through police vetting, which includes interviews and home visits.