POLICE seized more than 100 lethal firearms last year as part of ongoing efforts to make the streets safer and crack down on criminals linked to guns.
During 2021 officers recovered 132 viable firearms, including sawn-off shotguns, pistols and revolvers, plus a stash of ammunition.
Pic - West Midlands Police
Many of the recoveries were on the back of planned operations targeting gang members or people believed to be holding firearms for other people.
Assistant Chief Constable Claire Bell said: “We’re working around the clock to identify and arrest people linked to guns and gangs.
“Our specialist gangs units are continually reviewing the intelligence picture to understand the make-up and threat of organised crime gangs, disrupting their activity and carrying out regular enforcement.
“We’re making regular arrests of people who pose a serious danger to our communities.
“The work is really important and every single one of these guns we’ve recovered represents a potential life saved.”
Pic - West Midlands Police
ACC Bell added: “I’d urge everyone to work with us and provide information on suspicious activity or people suspected to have access to weapons.
“We really appreciate information passed to us about gun possession or suspicious activity and will act on it swiftly to protect the public.”
People can message police via Live Chat on the force website or call independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
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