Press Release - Alderney Weapons Surrender hailed as a success - 01.03

Media Release

Date: 1^st March 2023
Issued at: 10:25 hrs

Joint Media Release from the States of Alderney and Guernsey Police

Alderney Weapons Surrender hailed as a success

The two-week Alderney Weapons Surrender which ended last night (February 28^th) has been proclaimed a success with a number of licence renewals and more than 30 dangerous weapons handed in.

Shotguns, .22 rifles, handguns, spearguns, an assortment of knives, a decorative sword, a mace and 200 crossbow bolts were among the items handed in.

There were also 20 certificate applications for weapons and ammunition which did not need to be handed in while the applications are processed.

The Alderney Policing team worked in partnership with the States of Alderney last year to make Alderney a safer island by updating the Dangerous Weapons Ordinance and improving the dangerous weapons application process.

Sergeant James Taylor of Alderney Police said:

"It was identified that there may be existing licence holders, previous licence holders or members of the public who no longer wish to keep dangerous weapons, so we decided to provide an opportunity for the community to surrender any weapons they no longer wish to keep. The Weapons Surrender has been very positive with a number of licence renewals and over 30 dangerous weapons being handed in for safe disposal. These weapons are no longer available to the public and will ensure Alderney continues to be a safe place to live, work and visit."

Alderney Police will continue to investigate illegally held firearms and other dangerous weapons. Alderney's dangerous weapons law is different to the UK and other jurisdictions in that it includes a wider range of weapons that must be licenced, including BB guns, spearguns and bows and arrows for which a certificate is required. Further information can be found on the States website alderney.gov.gg or by contacting the Chief Executive's office on 01481 820010.

Ends

Note to Editors:

Photo shows Sgt Taylor with the surrendered weapons which included the engraved hunting knife he is holding.

For further information or a choice of high-res images, contact Alistair Forrest, alistair29110@gmail.com