A firearms amnesty is currently in place for previously lawful blank-firing weapons.
The amnesty, which runs until February 27, is for five models of side or top-venting TVBFs weapons made by Bruni.
Tests by the National Crime Agency and police showed they are readily convertible and are therefore illegal to possess.
The amnesty period is designed to allow those who bought one of the models legally for their intended use to dispose of them safely.
It also prevents potentially lethal weapons falling into the hands of criminals who may seek to convert them and pose a risk to the public, police said.
The five imitation firearms which can be handed in to local police station without fear of prosecution are:
- 8mm PAK Bruni BBM Model 92 blank firing self-loading pistol
- 8mm PAK Bruni BBM New Police blank firing self-loading pistol
- 8mm PAK Bruni BBM Model 96 blank firing self-loading pistol
- 8mm PAK Bruni BBM Model ‘GAP’ blank firing self-loading pistol
- .380R (9mmK) PAK Bruni BBM ME Ranger single-action blank firing revolver
Possession of one of the guns after the amnesty ends could result in a prison sentence of 10 years.
During the amnesty period, those handing in one of the listed Bruni-manufactured TVBFs will not face prosecution for the illegal possession and will not have to give their details.
Weapons can be handed in at:
- Carlisle – Durranhill
- Penrith – Hunter Lane
- Barrow police station
- Kendal police station
- Whitehaven police station
- Workington police station
When transporting the weapon, people are asked to take care. Consider putting it them in a box or strong bag. Never attempt to take an uncovered firearm out in public. Members of the public are also advised to go directly to a designated station when handing in such items.
