Right: Senior Sergent Trevor Teer with some of the weapons already handed in during April.By Melissa Meehan
THERE are only two days left.
And local police are urging any residents with weapons to take advantage of the weapons amnesty and surrender them without fear of prosecution.
The month long amnesty has been deemed successful by Pakenham Senior Sergeant Trevor Teer, who said a steady flow of weapons had been handed in during April.
“The main types of weapons handed in during April included an assortment of knives,” Sen Sgt Teer said. “Mainly pocket knives.”
He said many people had taken advantage of the amnesty, with a pretty good response from all residents.
“It’s pleasantly surprising to see people take advantage of the amnesty,” he said.
“Things like this make it safer on the streets – it’s a great way to increase safety in the community.”
While Sen Sgt Teer said anyone in possession of a weapon and wishing to surrender it should first contact the police station to make the necessary arrangements, he said the station was open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and anyone wanting to hand in weapons were welcome to do so.
“It is important that all weapons, especially knives are carefully secured when handing in,” he said.
“Bare blades must be covered, even if only by cardboard.”
Those who wish to continue to possess a prohibited weapon and who have applied to the Licensing Services Division for Chief Commissioner Approval to do so may continue to possess the article during the period of the amnesty or until their application has been determined – whichever occurs first.
