Eight SLR semi-automatic rifles have been surrendered by an organisation in the state's Central Tablelands this week, as police continue to enforce Operation Armour.
Operation Armour was launched last month (Tuesday 4 June 2019) to target firearm theft across regional NSW and will be conducted in all Police Districts across the state.
General duties officers will be assisted by specialist police from the Firearms Registry, Rural Crime Prevention Team, the Drug and Firearms Squad, and the Criminal Groups Squad's Strike Force Raptor throughout the operation.
Chifley Police District Commander, Detective Superintendent Paul McDonald said the surrender serves as a timely reminder to the community to hand-in any firearms they no longer need or wish to retain.
"It is important that when people or organisations no longer have a need for their firearms that they are disposed of in an appropriate manner," Det Supt McDonald said.
"When in the wrong hands, firearms are dangerous and a threat to the community, so surrendering unused guns helps reduce the risk that they will fall into the illegal firearm trade and be used for unlawful purposes."
Det Supt McDonald said firearms should be rendered safe and unloaded before being transported for surrender. It is also recommend to phone ahead to alert local police or licensed firearms dealers that you will be bringing firearms in.
"Please assess your need to retain firearms and if you do have guns ensure they are stored safely and securely, as there are significant penalties for non-compliance with legislation," he said.
"Our officers are committed to ensuring the number of illegal and unwanted firearms are removed from the community, and we need assistance from the community to do this," Det Supt McDonald said.
As Operation Armour continues, police will focus on preventing, disrupting and reducing firearm thefts. Firearms Prohibition Orders and Weapons Prohibition Orders will be conducted, as well as safe storage inspections.
More information about responsibilities as a firearms owner, including licences, permits; sale and purchase, and safe storage can be found at the Firearms Registry page on the NSW Police Force website: https://www.police.nsw.gov.au/online_services/firearms
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