Merseyside Police is cracking down on converted blank-firing guns that pose a serious threat on the streets, urging the public to participate in an amnesty.
These modified guns are now more common on the streets than actual firearms. They’ve been linked to several high-profile incidents in the area. The National Crime Agency found that certain Turkish models are easily convertible, making them illegal.
Originally, these guns are designed to only fire blanks. But criminals are painting them black to make them look like real guns. With strict gun laws in the UK, it’s easier for them to modify these blank-firing guns than to smuggle in real ones.
While these converted weapons can misfire, they’re still being used in more shooting incidents than traditional handguns. The police are running a firearms amnesty, allowing people to hand in these guns without facing prosecution. It’s a chance for folks to safely dispose of them.
Detective Chief Superintendent Karen Jaundrill emphasized that every gun turned in is one less that could be used for harm. She encourages everyone to check their homes for these firearms, as many might not even realize they own one.
In a recent case, two men were caught converting these guns to sell. They had a modified firearm hidden in their attic, and their plans were uncovered through a police investigation. The judge warned that their actions could have had deadly consequences.
Another man faced court after his DNA was found on a converted gun. He claimed it was dug up by his dog during a walk. The judge pointed out that the weapon could have been used for serious crimes.
The amnesty is part of a broader effort led by the National Crime Agency and supported by local police. Testing showed that these guns can be easily converted with basic tools. The authorities are taking this threat seriously, as the potential for harm is significant.
The message is clear: if you have one of these guns, now is the time to turn it in. After the amnesty, possession could lead to a lengthy prison sentence. The NCA is committed to keeping the public safe from these dangerous weapons.
