Firearms amnesty in Nottinghamshire

Nottinghamshire Police is joining forces around the country in a firearms amnesty.

The aim is to safely dispose of a firearm.

Officers want people who don't realise that their firearms are being held illegally, or those who have forgotten about firearms in their property, to hand them in.

They're keen to avoid the risk of the weapons being used eventually by criminals and want to provide people with a safe place to dispose of any firearms or ammunition. Weapons can be handed in until Friday.

During that period, those surrendering firearms will not face prosecution for illegal possession and can remain anonymous. However, the history of each live weapon will be checked for evidence of its use in crimes.

The surrender is timely following the recent changes in firearms legislation. The laws around antique firearms have been tightened which mean that someone who has served or received a criminal sentence can no longer possess an antique gun.

The sentencing guidelines for possession for sale or transfer of an unauthorised firearm or ammunition have also been raised. This offence now carries a maximum penalty of life.

Detective Inspector Karen Pearson said: “We had an overwhelming response to our amnesty back in March with more than 200 weapons surrendered.

“In particular we’re asking people to think about the consequences of keeping an illegal firearm. The law comes down hard on anyone possessing one illegally – even if they are keeping it for someone else."

Anyone handing in a firearm, or a stun gun, during the surrender is advised to check the opening times of the police stations participating in the amnesty, which include Newark, and where possible phone 101 before travelling. They will then be advised on how to best transport the weapon responsibly from home to the police station.