Police urge people to hand in weapons during county-wide amnesty

Last year, 150 weapons including firearms, tasers, CS canisters and crossbows, as well as knives, were taken of the streets as part of the campaign.

Secure bins have been set up at police stations in Lincoln, Grantham, Boston, Skegness and Spalding which will remain in place until 18th December.

Any weapon other than firearms can be placed in the bins completely anonymously, with no questions asked.

But the force has stressed that the amnesty doesn’t apply to firearms as checks must be made to ensure it was legitimately held.

Anyone wanting to surrender a firearm should call 101 or speak with the front desk at any of the participating stations.

Detective Inspector Dave Harrop said: “Lincolnshire is an incredibly safe place but we still take every opportunity to reduce the number of weapons in the county.

“We hope that this amnesty will take even more out of circulation that could have otherwise been used in violence or to intimidate.

"If you're wondering if a weapon can go in the bin or not, the rule is if it doesn't go bang it can go in the can.

“This is just part of Operation Raptor, and we are constantly working to prevent crimes involving weapons, educate our county’s young people about the dangers and consequences, and where suitable, to rehabilitate those that been involved in carrying weapons.”

A spokesperson for the force stressed that handing in an item that could be considered a weapon, people can ensure that it doesn’t fall into the wrong hands.

And they went on to say: “You should contact police immediately if you know that someone else has a weapon illegally or are concerned about someone in possession of any weapon, even if they have a licence.

“In an emergency dial 999, and if you don’t want to give your name please call CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.”

The spokesperson explained that yhe bins are located within the reception areas and there is no need to speak with anyone – unless it is regarding a firearm.

“There is no need to call ahead unless you have queries or concerns about your weapon or the process of handing it in.

“If you are elderly, infirm or without transport, police will attend your home. Please call 101. Do not attempt to bring items that might be unstable, e.g. a hand grenade. Call 101 for advice,” they said.

All weapons handed in will be destroyed.