Hampshire Constabulary have launched their Firearms Surrender today (Monday), giving people the chance to hand in any firearms or ammunition which have come into their possession for whatever reason.
The surrender runs until Sunday 26th November and is part of national initiative run by the National Ballistics Intelligence Service (NABIS). It aims to reduce the number of illegally held firearms within our communities.
Each firearm handed into Police is 1 less that could fall into the hands of criminals.
Whether it is an old family heirloom that has been stored away for years, a former military weapon or an unwanted firearm which was previously legally owned – all can be handed in to Newport Police Station, safe in the knowledge that they will be disposed of safely.
Hampshire Constabulary are also accepting replica firearms, air weapons, BB guns, imitation firearms, antique guns, component parts and other ballistic items.
During the fortnight firearms licence holders are also being encouraged to consider the surrender of weapons they no longer have any use for.
Chief Inspector Emma Baillie, Head of Armed Response for the Joint Operations Unit for Hampshire and Thames Valley, said:
“This is your chance to safely dispose of any guns or ammunition you no longer want but don’t know what to do with.
Article continues below this advertisement “Surrender them now and we can dispose of them safely, making sure that they do not fall into the hands of criminals.
“We know that the consequences of firearms or replica firearms falling into the wrong hands can be fatal and can cause real fear within our communities.
“They also have the potential of being used against our own officers who could find themselves confronted with someone wielding a weapon in public.”
“While crimes involving firearms in Hampshire are rare, we know that every firearm poses a potential threat if they are not licensed and stored safely.
“That is why we are offering this opportunity to safely hand in your unwanted firearms.
“The fight against gun crime is stronger than ever. We take all reports of incidents involving firearms extremely seriously and robust action will be taken against anyone who commits a firearms related offence.”
During the 2-week campaign, those surrendering firearms will not face prosecution for the illegal possession upon surrender and can remain anonymous. However, this is not an amnesty and if further examination of a surrendered firearm reveals a link to a crime, this will be investigated.
Historic ordnance should not be moved or handed in to any stations, if you think you have any items like this, call 101 for advice.
Newport Police Station is open Monday to Saturday 09:00-18:00 and Sunday 09:30 to 18:00. Closed for lunch between 13:00 and 14:00 every day.
