Waterloo police wrap up 'successful' gun amnesty campaign

Another year, another round of guns taken off the streets, thanks to an annual project of the Waterloo Regional Police Service.

The initiative asked citizens to turn in their weapons in an effort to get unwanted firearms, ammunition and other dangerous tools out of the hands of residents. 

This year, 109 firearms and replicas were collected for destruction by the force during their firearms amnesty program. There were also thousands of rounds of ammunition, prohibited weapons and military ordnance accumulated by police, according to the force.  

• Waterloo police hold first ever gun amnesty
• 2014 gun amnesty figures in Waterloo Region
• 50 weapons collected in seven days by police

It is the second straight year regional police took part in the month-long campaign that aims to reduce violent crimes by collecting unwanted firearms in the area.

In a news release, police said this year's efforts were focused on unwanted replica firearms, particularly pellet and BB guns, as police say "an increase in their use in violent crime had been evident within the region."

• Waterloo driver shot in head by pellet gun
• 20-year-old charged in BB, pellet gun shootings

Citizens can still turn in unwanted guns and weapons by calling 519-653-7700. Be advised that these items should not be brought to a police facility at any time. 

Last year, 346 weapons including 233 guns were collected by the force and 50 weapons were brought in during the first week alone.