Crossbow and tank shell among weapons already surrendered to county firearms amnesty

More than 100 guns, a crossbow and a tank shell have been surrendered to police as part of the county’s ongoing firearms amnesty.
Firearms. Library image.Firearms. Library image.
Firearms. Library image.

The initiative to rid Herts’ streets of illegally-held weapons runs until Friday, and has already seen 113 firearms given in by owners with no threat of prosecution by the force.

A total of 12 air rifles, nine air pistols, 18 shotguns, seven rifles, 10 handguns, 12 starting pistols, one signal pistol and 17 other guns have so far been handed in to officers, with five days yet to go in the drive.

Also given up were 27 imitation weapons, a crossbow and 3,000 separate items of ammunition.

A tank shell was detonated in a controlled explosion after being reported to police in Watford.

Chief Supt Jane Swinburne said: “The amnesty has been very successful so far and we have managed to take a significant number of firearms out of public circulation.

Gun crime is very low in Hertfordshire but as part of the national campaign to stop guns falling into the wrong hands, we are pleased to be able to offer a way for anyone with an unwanted firearm in their possession the opportunity to dispose of it safely.

“There is still time for people to surrender weapons and during the amnesty without fear of prosecution for firearms licensing offences.”

The amnesty is the first to be held in Herts for more than a decade.

Recent changes to firearms laws, which came into force in July, could mean some gun owners may be unaware they are in possession of an illegal firearm.

Firearms can be surrendered at Watford, Hatfield, Hoddesdon or Stevenage police stations before Friday, November 21. Visit www.herts.police.uk for opening times and contact details.

To report a firearm you wish to submit, call 01707 806126 or email [email protected].

People who wish to keep their firearms can also call the helpline for help with obtaining the necessary certificates to ensure they are not breaking For more information on the amnesty visit www.herts.police.uk/amnesty.

Related topics: