Rifles and shotguns turned in

More than 60 firearms have been handed in across the county during a two-week police gun amnesty.

Sixty-three firearms have been handed in to Lincolnshire Police during the fortnight-long surrender.

Of the 63 firearms, there were four air pistols, 44 rifles, and 15 shot guns.

Detective Inspector Mark Seage said: “We had a selection of weapons handed in during the two week surrender; these included fully functional weapons through to imitation weapons. Imitation weapons in the wrong hands can cause as much fear as live weapons.

“We are delighted that residents have supported our campaign and handed in these weapons which will prevent them from getting into the wrong hands. I would like to thank all of the staff, and residents, who participated in this campaign for their support.”

The hand-in appeal was part of a national campaign run by the National Ballistics Intelligence Service (NABIS).

Detective Inspector Seage said at the launch: “This is a chance for people to really think about whether they want to hold on to their weapons, and as a reminder to check that they still have the legal right to do so.

“One less firearm means one less opportunity for it to fall into the wrong hands.

“While crimes involving firearms in Lincolnshire are extremely rare, we understand that every weapon poses a potential threat if not licensed and stored safely. That’s why we’re offering people this opportunity to safely dispose of any unwanted weapons.”

The last firearms amnesty in Lincolnshire took place in 2017, during which 142 real and replica weapons were handed in to police.