A video of police destroying guns has been released as part of a campaign encouraging people to hand in their firearms.

The Met is taking part in 2019 National Firearms Surrender which started on July 20 and will run until August 4.

During these two weeks members of the public can hand in a firearm or ammunition to police anonymously, and will not face prosecution for illegal possession at the point of surrender.

There are a total of 12 police stations across south London where weapons and ammunition can be handed in.

Any firearm including handguns, shotguns, rifles, BB guns, imitations as well as any antique, ex-military weapons or ammunition can be surrendered. Registered weapons which are no longer wanted can be handed in, as well as non-lethal firearms such as Tasers, CS spray and stun guns.

Detective Chief Superintendent Craig Turner, said: “Too often we come across friends, family members and partners of criminals being asked to conceal firearms. These individuals often believe they won’t be arrested or prosecuted, but saying ‘it’s not my gun’ is not a defence.

“If someone asks you to carry or conceal a weapon, they are shifting the risk to you. If you’re caught in possession of a firearm you will be jailed for a minimum of five years – regardless of who obtained the weapon. If you’re convicted of possessing a firearm with intent, the sentence will be much longer.

“Often the guns we see being used in shooting incidents are converted, formerly legally-owned firearms, others are acquired and distributed by criminal networks. Each firearm we retrieve helps reduce the threat of gun crime in London, so I would urge anyone with a weapon to surrender it, and anyone with information to come forward whether directly to police or anonymously through one of many organisations out there willing to help.”

Here is a list of all 12 south London station where firearms can be handed in:

  • Bexleyheath police station
  • Brixton police station
  • Bromley police station
  • Croydon police station
  • Kingston police station
  • Lavender Hill police station
  • Lewisham police station
  • Mitcham police station
  • Plumstead police station
  • Sutton police station
  • Twickenham police station
  • Wimbledon police station

Those who would like to hand in a firearm or ammunition can check the opening times of their station in advance by visiting www.met.police.uk. To receive advice on how best to transport a firearm to a police station call 101 before travelling.

If you know of anyone in possession of an illegal firearm or involved in gun crime call police on 101 or 999 in an emergency. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. They do not ask your name, and cannot trace your call.