Tasmania Police have thanked the community for their positive response to the mobile firearm amnesty at the Launceston Silverdome this weekend.

“A mobile police station where people can hand in unwanted or unregistered firearms and ammunition is a proactive way of getting these firearms out of the community,” said Detective Inspector Scott Flude.

“This weekend we have received at total of 197 firearms.  These firearms will now be destroyed,” said Detective Inspector Flude.

The Firearms included:

• 93 Rifles
• 63 Shotguns
• 35 Air Rifles &
• 6 Pistols

“The mobile amnesty serves as a reminder that Tasmania has a permanent amnesty in place.  Unwanted or unregistered firearms can be handed in to any police station or registered firearms dealer for destruction,” he said.

“Every firearm handed in this weekend is a firearm that cannot be targeted for theft by criminals, and raises awareness of the ongoing amnesty.”

Police will bring the mobile firearm amnesty to Burnie and Devonport early next year.

Anyone with information about gun related crime is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.