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WA gun amnesty hits its target

Justin BianchiniMidland Kalamunda Reporter

MORE than 1200 guns were surrendered in WA during the three-month national gun amnesty, which ended on Saturday night.

Police Minister Michelle Roberts said it had exceeded expectations.

“Because a previous amnesty was held in 2013, we had not expected to get such high numbers this time around,” she said.

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“What it means is there are now 1242 fewer illegal guns which will no longer have the potential to fall into the hands of criminals.

“Disturbingly, among the surrendered items was an assortment of high-powered weapons and guns that had been modified, presumably for no other reason than criminal purposes.

“I’m pleased to say these are now on the way to the scrap heap.”

Firearms handed in included 186 shotguns, 860 rifles, 196 handguns and 65,618 rounds of ammunition.

Historic firearms will be considered for donation to historical societies or museums, including:

– 85 WWI era rifles and handguns. – WWII submachine gun. – An 1885 BSA, Martini-Henry rifle. – An 1878 Enfield rifle. – WWII Luger pistols. – Pre-1900 Belgium pistol.

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