Blank firearms amnesty sees major response in Derbyshire

Credit: Derbyshire Police

More than 70 blank firers were handed in across Derbyshire as part of a national amnesty.

The month-long amnesty was for particular models of Bruni firearms, which testing by the NCA had shown to be readily convertible.

Twenty-eight of these particular models were handed in at police stations throughout February. A further forty-five blank firearms of other makes and models, as well as blank ammunition, were surrendered also

DI Cathy Austin, who led Operation Pivot in Derbyshire, said: “Removing these Blank firers from circulation is key, and we’re pleased to have seen such a large response to the amnesty here in Derbyshire.

Thank you to the owners who came forward, and to the officers and staff who worked hard to trace where these firearms may be within our county.

“Possession of these particular models of Bruni firearms below are now illegal and could result in a prison sentence of ten years. If you’re unsure whether your firearm is legal, please contact us for further advice.”

The models which were covered by the amnesty were:

• 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