Driving Naari Programme launched in Chandigarh
Peel Region – The numbers are in and we are pleased to report Peel Residents turned in 129 guns and 269 pounds of ammunition during the 2019 Spring Gun Amnesty Program. In 2018, residents turned in 34 guns and 80 pounds of ammunition. This year we see an increase of 380%.
“Removing unwanted firearms from circulation ensures they will not get into the wrong hands and be used in criminal activity. I would like to thank the residents of the Region of Peel for their cooperation and participation in this program. Their support enables our vision of A Safer Community Together,” said Chief Chris McCord.
The 2019 Gun Amnesty ran through the month of May and offered an opportunity for members of the community to safely and voluntarily surrender weapons and ammunition. The Amnesty period allowed community members to turn in both unwanted legal firearms, and guns that would potentially be considered illegal, without the risk of criminal charges that might have otherwise applied. There was however no amnesty offered for people who turn in weapons that have been used in the commission of a crime and no anonymous submissions were accepted.
2019 Gun Amnesty Program Results:
• A total of 52 homes were visited during the amnesty.
• A total of 129 firearms and x edged weapons were turned in by Region of Peel residents.
• A total of 269 pounds of ammunition was also turned in during the program.
The guns seized in the amnesty are in addition to the 121 guns Peel Regional Police officers already seized this year.
Peel’s Gun Amnesty Program started in 2015, the aim was to have residents voluntarily surrender unwanted or illegally-owned firearms, weapons, accessories or ammunition. There are no discernible trends resulting from past years and all efforts have enhanced public safety.
Although the 2019 Gun Amnesty program is complete we will continue to collect unwanted guns and ammunition for destruction. Please contact 905-453-3311 to make arrangements to have an officer attend your residence. Please DO NOT bring firearms to a police facility.
Anyone with information related to any firearm can contact the Vice, Narcotics and Street Level Organized Crime Unit at 905-453-2121, ext. 7704. Information may also be left anonymously by calling Peel Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), or by visitinghttps://peelcrimestoppers.ca/.
