Sask. police announce provincial gun amnesty

In an effort to make communities safer, police across Saskatchewan announced Monday they’re teaming up to hold a provincial gun amnesty program.

After the success of the Regina Police Service’s two-week gun amnesty last February — which saw 157 firearms and ammunition turned in — it was decided to expand the program across the province.

Regina’s deputy chief Dean Rae said the month-long initiative’s goal is to collect as many unwanted guns as possible.

“Whether (the guns) have been handed down from a grandfather, or some family member, and they no longer have any use for that and they just want to get rid of them, we’ll take them off their hands,” Rae explained.

In order for people to turn their guns in, they’re encouraged to call their local police to make arrangements.

“At no time do we want somebody carrying in a rifle box or anything through the front doors of the police station,” said Rae. “We will go out to them and we will pick (the guns) up in a safe manner and take care of it.”

After being checked over for any possible criminal affiliation, the guns will be destroyed.

“Sometimes these unwanted firearms and ammunition fall into the hands of people who should not have them,” said RCMP Assistant Commissioner Curtis Zablocki. “At the end, the incentive is to have safer communities in the province.”

Starting Thursday until April 27, residents are encouraged to hand over any unwanted guns to municipal police services in Regina, Saskatoon, Prince Albert, Moose Jaw, Estevan, Weyburn, Corman Park, File Hills, Dalmeny, Caronport, Wilton and Luseland. Guns can also be turned in to RCMP and conservation officers.