Crossbow bolts and sword are among weapons surrendered to Alderney police
DOZENS of dangerous weapons have been handed in to police in Alderney during a two-week weapons surrender, which ended on Tuesday night.
The island’s policing team hailed the programme a success after shotguns, rifles, handguns and knives were collected from members of the public.
Among the more unusual items were a mace, a decorative sword and 200 crossbow bolts.
The opportunity to hand in the weapons came after the States of Alderney updated the law last year.
‘It was identified that there may be existing licence holders, previous licence holders or members of the public who no longer wish to keep dangerous weapons, so we decided to provide an opportunity for the community to surrender any weapons they no longer wish to keep,’ said Sergeant James Taylor.
‘These weapons are no longer available to the public and will ensure Alderney continues to be a safe place to live, work and visit.’
There were also 20 certificate applications for weapons and ammunition, which did not need to be handed in while the applications are processed.
Alderney Police said they would continue to investigate illegally held firearms and other dangerous weapons, including BB guns, spearguns and bows and arrows for which Alderney – unlike some other jurisdictions – requires a certificate.
Last year Alderney States updated the Dangerous Weapons (Alderney) Ordinance 1965, following public consultation.
The amendments focused on ensuring that the use and possession of weapons and ammunition is safe and legal, with emphasis on enhancing public safety.
The surrender started on 14 February.
Now it has ended the police will continue to investigate illegally held firearms and other dangerous weapons.
