Eight firearms and a significant stash of ammunition are now off the streets after a mobile firearms amnesty drive across Tasmania last weekend.
Assistant Commissioner Adrian Bodnar said the haul included one shotgun, three rifles, two air rifles, a pistol and a gel blaster that closely resembles a real firearm.
“This is eight firearms now out of our community that can’t get into the wrong hands and be used to commit crime or cause harm,” he said.
While the collection was a success, police believe many illegal or unwanted firearms are still sitting in homes across the state.
“While it’s pleasing that people surrendered these items, we know there continues to be people in our community that have illegal or unwanted firearms, which is a concern.”
Tasmania runs a permanent firearms amnesty, which allows anyone to surrender illegal or unwanted firearms, parts, ammunition or replica weapons “without fear of being prosecuted” for possession, Bodnar added.
“If you have items to surrender, or you know of someone who has illegal firearms, please contact police on 131 444.”
Crime Stoppers Tasmania Ambassador Mark Mewis said community awareness is key to reducing the number of illegal weapons in circulation.
“If you suspect that someone has an illegal firearm or ammunition, you can help keep your community safe by sharing what you know with Crime Stoppers,” Mewis said.
He said reports can be made anonymously online or over the phone through Crime Stoppers.
