Police Urge Public to Hand in Firearms

Hertfordshire police are taking part in a national campaign to reduce the number of unwanted firearms and ammunition that could potentially fall into criminal hands.

During the two-week campaign, which runs between Thursday 12 May to Sunday 29 May, members of the public can surrender any unlicensed or unwanted firearms and ammunition to the police by calling 101 to organise an appointment.

Anyone handing over firearms or ammunition during the campaign will not face prosecution for possession of the weapon at the point of surrender.

They can also remain anonymous if preferred. However, any surrendered weapons found to be linked to criminal activity will be investigated and appropriate action taken.

Superintendent Mike Todd, Firearms Surrender Campaign Lead for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire police forces, said: ‘It is really important to be part of this national campaign. Many firearms are held in innocence and ignorance of their illegality or are overlooked and forgotten in people’s homes. Some are held legally and are no longer required.

‘Surrendering unwanted, unlicensed, and illegal weapons avoids the risk of them becoming involved in criminality and means that members of the community can dispose of firearms in a safe place.

‘The campaign is also an opportunity for members of the public to find out how to apply for certification to own a firearm legally.

‘Previous surrender campaigns have been very successful. If you or a member of your family have a firearm or ammunition, we encourage you to use this opportunity to surrender it.’

The national firearms surrender campaign is being coordinated by the National Ballistics Intelligence Service (NABIS).

If you suspect anyone is involved with illegal firearms, please call 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.