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Weapons playground creates excitement in Peru
Are all children in this playground in Peru aware that they are playing with old weapons? The material used to build the playground equipment is firearms confiscated by the authorities, which have been melted down, reshaped and dyed. Seesaws, climbing frames, swings and even fitness equipment were made from around 5,000 guns. Juan Alvarez of the responsible initiative said: “The Weapons Control Authority also seizes weapons that are traded in illegal markets. Thanks to the support of a steel company, we are converting this large arsenal into mini-gyms. With this we prevent crime, that is, transform we quasi violence in peace. ” The idea means that there are fewer weapons and more playgrounds. The parents are also enthusiastic. A mother: “This playground is a dream. Two months ago, when the minister came by, the neighbors didn’t believe it. And now this dream has come true thanks to the weapons that were used for crimes and murders. Now they are used these weapons for the benefit of our children. We have taken a big step. ” There are over 2,400 homicides annually in Peru. In percentage terms, the death rate in the South American country is even higher than in the USA.
The Firearms Supervision Authority melted down around 5,000 seized firearms, re-colored them and used them to build a playground.