Firearms surrender results in 99 fewer weapons in Derbyshire

A recent force wide firearms surrender which aimed to reduce the number of guns in circulation across the county has seen 99 weapons handed in to Derbyshire Constabulary.

The firearms surrendered, during a two-week period which began on 12 May, include amongst other items shotguns, pistols, air rifles and ornate long barrelled weapons of special interest.

The last firearms surrender in Derbyshire was in 2019, and saw 30 firearms handed in.

Inspector Ellen Lovatt who led this year’s firearms surrender in Derbyshire, said: “We are really pleased with the success of this surrender. It means that there are 99 fewer weapons in circulation in Derbyshire, which could otherwise get into the wrong hands and be used in criminality.

“I really want to thank the public for engaging with the surrender and making the effort to bring the weapons to us. Ultimately this is a great example of the public and police working together to make Derbyshire and beyond a safer place for us all”

During the surrender Inspector Lovatt and PC Steve Clarke, of Firearms Support, spoke to us about the initiative and items which were being handed in, and you can watch that here:

Insp. Lovatt added: “If, now the surrender has ended, anyone has a firearm, imitation or replica which they wish to hand in they can do so by contacting us in the first instance so that we can make arrangements for armed response officers to attend and ensure the weapon is safe.

“The history of each live weapon will be checked for evidence of its use in crime and if they have not been used in criminality, they will be melted down or recycled.”

If you need more advice about what to do with a firearm or ammunition contact us via one of the following methods.

• Facebook – send us a private message to our Facebook page
• Twitter – direct message our contact centre via @DerPolContact
• Website – We have several crime reporting tools on our website or use our online contact form
• Phone – call us on 101.

You can also anonymously contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111, or by visiting the Crimestoppers website.