More than 100 firearms have been handed in to the police so far during their two-week surrender campaign that started last week, and continues until Sunday 26th November.
In total, 117 weapons have been handed over to Avon and Somerset Police so far, along with a quantity of ammunition.
There is still another week for members of the public to hand in their weapons anonymously if they wish, with the surrender ending on Sunday 26th November.
You can hand in the firearms at the following specially designated police stations:
- The Bridewell: open 8am – 8pm everyday;
- Broadbury Road: open 8am – 8pm everyday;
- Patchway Police Centre: open 8am – 8pm everyday;
- Bridgwater Police Centre: open 8am – 8pm everyday;
- Yeovil: open 8am – 8pm everyday;
- Trinity Road: open 10am – 6pm Monday to Friday.
By surrendering the firearms, those members of public have ensured the guns do not fall into the wrong hands and cannot be used for criminal purposes.
Even replicas and air rifles can be used to cause harm by criminals.
One Brocock airgun surrendered looks and feels just like a revolver and would provoke fear into anyone it was pointed at.
Police have also had several firearms handed in with historical interest.
A Walther P38 from World War Two, complete with what appears to be the original holster, has been surrendered.
The semi-automatic pistol, which was the service pistol of the Wehrmacht at the beginning of the war, is likely to have been a war trophy.
Officers have also received a Dreyse M1907 semi-automatic pistol. It was used by the Volkssturm and Volksgrenadier late in World War Two.
Chief Inspector John Holt said: “We use various tactics to locate weapons that have fallen into the wrong hands – but we need the public’s help.
“We are delighted with the response so far but want as many weapons as possible and would continue to encourage people to hand them in this week.
“One weapon off the streets is one less that can be used to harm or threaten our communities.
“If you know where a weapon is being kept illegally, now is your chance to give up the gun, or tell us anonymously where it is. You will not be prosecuted for possession and you could save a life.”
Any firearm handed in that is thought to have a historical/research interest are safely transferred to the relevant institution, eg the National Firearms Centre at the Royal Armouries at Leeds.
If you know of people involved in illegal firearms call police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
