People in Lichfield and Burntwood are being urged to hand over any unwanted firearms as part of a national campaign to take guns off the street.
The amnesty, which began today (November 13), follows a previous national appeal three years ago that saw more than 200 guns handed over, including antique firearms, rifles and shotguns.
Superintendent Carl Ratcliffe, head of prevention and early intervention, said a number of people may hold weapons without realising they could be illegal.
“I am urging anyone with an unwanted firearm to hand it over to police,” he said. “You don’t have to give your name or address – we just want more firearms out of harm’s way.
“We are lucky to have very low levels of gun crime in Staffordshire, but for that to remain we must prevent firearms ending up in criminal hands.
“Perhaps you have a firearm that has been handed down through the family or you have found a firearm in your loft or shed which has been gathering dust and you had forgotten about it. During the campaign this November you can contact us and either hand in or request a pick-up of any unwanted or illegal firearms. This way you can be confident you have got rid of itsafely.
“Each firearm we retrieve is one less that can be involved in crime and do untold damage and harm, so do the right thing and surrender your weapon.”
The amnesty lasts for two weeks and people can find out where to hand over any weapons by calling 101.