The Regina Police Service is working proactively to address the issue of gun violence through a Firearms Amnesty Program.
Firearms related calls and seizures of firearms increased dramatically in 2016. In order to help combat the increase, the Regina Police Service wants to raise awareness about the potential risk of unwanted firearms in our community. Unwanted firearms can fall into the hands of criminals by way of break and enters, thefts or accidental loss. Reducing the number of these firearms in the City of Regina will have a positive impact on community safety.
In 2016, there were 141 violent offences involving a firearm. This is a 94% increase from the five-year average. There were also 343 firearms seized over the same time period in the city of Regina. That’s a 31% increase over the five- year average. There were 55 firearms reported stolen in 2016. That compares to 35 from the previous year. These figures represent a 57% increase in stolen firearms.
From February 1st – 15th, 2017, Regina residents are encouraged to contact the Regina Police Service to surrender their unwanted firearms, replica firearms, and ammunition. NOTE: We do not want members of the public transporting firearms to the Regina Police Service. Improper transportation of firearms presents a safety risk and can result in potential criminal implications. Police Service members will go to pick up unwanted firearms from the homes of residents who wish to surrender them. From Feb. 1st -15th the Regina Police Service will not pursue any charges in relation to the unauthorized possession of firearms that are surrendered as part of this amnesty initiative. Surrendered firearms will be checked by police to determine if they are involved in any ongoing investigations. Firearms will then be destroyed. The Regional Crown Prosecutors office and the Chief Firearms Officer are supportive of this program.
Our City of Regina partners including Regina Transit and the Community Services Department will be participating and providing an incentive for members of the public who voluntarily surrender firearms. Those who turn in unwanted firearms will have the option of receiving a one-month Adult Leisure Pass or a 31-day Adult Transit Pass as an additional incentive.
If you want to get rid of an unwanted firearm, please call the Regina Police Service at 306-777-6500 and let us know that you have a firearm you want to get rid of, under the Firearms Amnesty Program. Police Officers will come pick up the firearm from you, safely. Please do not enter the Police Service Headquarters building with a firearm.