Western Daily Press (Saturday)
AK-47 assault rifle handed in during amnesty
AN AK-47 assault rifle has been handed into police during a firearms amnesty. Although deactivated, police say that if it had fallen into the wrong hands it could still have been used in “criminal activity”.
A post on Wiltshire Police’s official Facebook page said: “A big thank you to the member of the public, who as part of our firearms surrender decided to hand in this AK-47.
“Although deactivated, if this firearm found itself in the wrong hands it could be used as part of criminal activity to frighten and threaten others.
“If seen by a member of the public and reported to police it would almost certainly be treated a live firearm which would have resulted in an armed response operation.”
The amnesty is also operating in Somerset until August 4.
Last year when Avon and Somerset Police launched a similar scheme, 313 guns and 120 pieces of ammunition were dropped off at police stations across the county.
Under the amnesty, people can hand in guns anonymously without fear of prosecution.
However, guns and ammunition will be examined by the National Ballistics Intelligence Service (NABIS) and any crime identified will be investigated.
Chief Inspector John Holt said: “Every weapon handed in helps to make our communities safer. Even
lawfully-held or licensed firearms can be used to cause harm or fear in our communities if they fall into criminal hands. This fortnight is your chance to give up an illegal gun, or tell us where one is, without giving your name. Every weapon or piece of ammunition taken off the streets could save a life.”
Until Sunday, August 4 people can hand in guns, ammunition, stun guns and pepper spray at police centres in Bridgwater, Keynsham, Patchway, Trinity, Yeovil and Trowbridge.
Firearms should be handed into front counter staff at identified police stations. If you are unable to travel to a police station, then you should contact police via 101 and arrange for the firearm to be collected.
Police say: “Many firearms are held in innocence and ignorance of their illegality or are overlooked and forgotten in people’s homes. Others are acquired and distributed by criminal networks to harm, threaten and intimidate their local communities.
“The surrender gives people the chance to dispose of firearms or ammunition by simply taking them to a local police station and handing them over. During that period, those surrendering firearms will not face prosecution for the illegal possession upon surrender and can remain anonymous.”