The Tasmania Police mobile firearms amnesty is moving to Devonport and Burnie later this month.

Police in the Western District will establish a mobile Police Station at two locations over the weekend of 22 and 23 March, where anyone with an unwanted firearm or ammunition can hand it to police.

“Our mobile amnesties in Hobart and Launceston last year resulted in almost 300 firearms handed in, and we are now providing that opportunity for residents around Devonport and Burnie,” said Sergeant Peter May.

“Mobile police stations at the Devonport Showground on Saturday 22 March and at the Burnie Showground on Sunday 23 March offer secure sites for handing over firearms or ammunition. We don’t turn anyone away and people can remain anonymous if they wish.”

“Police officers will also be available to provide advice about appropriate storage requirements.”

“Police would also like to remind anyone with unwanted or unregistered firearms that there is a permanent amnesty for handing them over at any police station,” said Sergeant May.

The amnesty means no action will be taken against anyone who voluntarily surrenders to a police station, a firearm or firearms, which they are not authorised to possess under the Firearms Act.

Firearms are surrendered for a number of reasons, including that they are unregistered, no longer needed or belonged to a deceased relative.

Advice for anyone who wants to hand over a firearm or ammunition:

• 22 March 2014 – Devonport Showgrounds 9am – 5pm.
• 23 March 2014 – Burnie Showgrounds 9am – 5am.
• Ensure the firearm is unloaded before transporting it.
• Park in the designated area, where a police officer will assist.

Members of the public can also attend the mobile Police Station and speak to officers in relation to any information they may have on firearm crime or any other offences. Alternatively information can be passed to Crime Stoppers 24 hours a day on 1800 333 000.