Still, the bureau seized 1,227 such parts or completed guns in 1988.

They were ordered to seize guns from the population.

Overall, 83% of the guns seized by Mexican authorities could not be traced.

Such databases already exist on a limited scale, covering guns seized by the police.

"They have seized guns from the police," Reuters quoted one diplomat as saying.

Some, such as a Serbian antiaircraft gun seized by the force last night, appeared to have been left intentionally.

The Canadian authorities have seized guns and drugs they say have moved north through the reservation.

What if a less aggressive police force seized fewer guns and caught fewer criminals?

A year ago, the government began what it said was a campaign to seize illegal guns and halt the issuance of licences for new ones.

Like other guns seized by the police, it will be melted down and reincarnated as wire clothes hangers.