Got Guns or Ammo? Hand Them In Now – Sussex & Surrey Launch Big Firearms Surrender
Sussex and Surrey police are calling on the public to hand in unwanted or illegal guns and ammunition in a new two-week operation aimed at making communities safer. Many firearms lurk unnoticed in homes, often kept out of ignorance or oversight. Others are pushed around by criminals to threaten and intimidate local residents.
From Monday 20 July until Sunday 4 August, people can drop off firearms and ammunition at local police stations without fear of prosecution — and with complete anonymity. This is a firearms surrender, not a full amnesty. Police warn they will still investigate any ongoing offences uncovered after the campaign ends.
How to Hand Over Weapons Safely and Anonymously
- Visit your local police station during the surrender period.
- No prosecution at point of surrender for illegal possession.
- Your identity can remain anonymous.
- Check police websites for opening times and locations.
Detective Chief Inspector Steve Rayland said: “If you have guns or ammo you don’t want, or are unsure what to do with, we can help. Handing in weapons now stops them falling into criminal hands and protects the public.”
What’s Included? From Replicas to War Trophies
The campaign targets not only illegal firearms but also:
- Replica firearms, air guns, BB guns, imitation weapons
- Antique, deactivated, or defective firearms
- Component parts, stun guns, Tasers, pepper spray
- Weapons held as war trophies by ex-military personnel
DCI Rayland emphasised: “This isn’t a blanket amnesty, but an opportunity to remove dangerous weapons before they cause harm. Firearms crimes are rare here, but every illegal or unsafe gun is a potential threat.”
Strong Message from Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner
Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne said: “The UK has some of the strictest gun laws globally for good reason. Many people may unknowingly possess illegal firearms — antiques, souvenirs, replicas — without realising it. This surrender period offers a safe way to do the right thing.”
She added: “We urge everyone in Sussex to take a careful look at any firearms or ammo in their homes. If in any doubt, hand them in to avoid risks and legal trouble.”
Remember:
- The surrender runs 20 July to 4 August.
- No prosecution for illegal gun possession at hand-in.
- Lawful gun owners can reassess unwanted firearms safely.
- Firearms deactivated before March 2018 are ‘defectively-deactivated’ and cannot be sold but can be possessed.
- Firearms meeting 2018 specs must have official deactivation certificates to be sold or gifted.
Don’t let a dangerous weapon lie around. Hand it in safely and anonymously. Help keep Sussex and Surrey safer.
