What is the purpose of the Regina Police Service Gun Amnesty?
The Regina Police Service Gun Amnesty will allow residents of Regina, who have illegal or unwanted firearms, other weapons or ammunition, an opportunity to voluntarily surrender them to the police for safe disposal. The amnesty takes place between February 1, 2017 to February 15, 2017 and during this time police will not recommend weapons-related Criminal Code charges that might otherwise apply against people who are turning in these items.
The immunity from prosecution will not apply to those persons who, when detained or arrested, are found to be in possession of a weapon; nor will it apply if it is determined that a firearm or other weapon has been used for a criminal purpose.
Which sections of the Criminal Code are affected by the amnesty?
Section 91 – Unauthorized possession of a firearm. This section requires individuals to possess both a firearms license and the appropriate registration certificates for firearms that they possess.
Section 92 – Possession of a firearm knowing it to be unauthorized.
Section 93 – Possession of a firearm at an unauthorized place. Some classes of firearms are required to be registered at and stored at a specific address.
Section 95 – Possession of a restricted or prohibited firearm with ammunition.
Application of the Regina Police Service Gun Amnesty
It is important to note that the amnesty only applies to individuals who have contacted the Regina Police Service to participate in the program. Those detained or arrested by police in other circumstances will continue to be subject to charges. Furthermore, the amnesty will not apply if it is determined that a firearm or other weapon that was voluntarily surrendered has been used for a criminal purpose.
What should I do if I want to hand in a gun?
Contact the Regina Police Service by calling 306 777-6500. The call taker will ask information about the firearms and ammunition in your possession. Many firearms are marked with the make, model, serial number and caliber. Be clear about any ammunition that they may have, especially if anything could be considered explosive.
A police officer will then come to your home to pick up the firearm/s and any ammunition.