Danish Police Receive Thousands of Weapons
This month, Denmark has witnessed a remarkable response to its nationwide arms amnesty, with over 8,400 weapons handed over to police. This initiative aims to address escalating violence among criminal gangs by encouraging citizens to surrender illegal firearms without fear of prosecution.
One Man’s Significant Haul
Amid this amnesty effort, an unidentified man made headlines by turning in an impressive collection of 80 firearms, which included 62 pistols and 18 other weapons, such as rifles and submachine guns. He also handed over 140 kilograms of ammunition and a hand grenade believed to date back to World War II. The man’s discovery occurred while he was cleaning a house, and his contribution stands out as the largest single batch submitted thus far.
Prioritizing Public Safety
Danish police emphasize the importance of this program in ensuring that unauthorized weapons do not fall into the hands of criminal organizations. With rising violence linked to gangs fighting for drug territory, officials hope that the amnesty will mitigate these risks. Police spokesman Thomas Kristensen noted that the severity of the situation necessitated actions such as these to enhance public safety.
Precautions Taken by Authorities
During the first 12 days of the amnesty, the influx of weapons was so significant that some police stations had to temporarily evacuate due to citizens inadvertently turning in hazardous items like grenades and explosives, according to Sune Fletcher Hjortel from the national police. In Denmark, it is illegal to acquire or possess firearms and dangerous weapons without a police permit, highlighting the importance of secure storage for those granted permission.
The Tradition of Arms Amnesty in Europe
Denmark’s current arms amnesty follows similar initiatives held in 2009, 2013, and 2017. Other European countries have also engaged in similar efforts. For instance, in France, a two-week collection in 2022 saw at least 65,000 firearms turned in at 300 locations. Furthermore, Serbia implemented a month-long amnesty last year, resulting in over 13,500 weapons being surrendered following a tragic series of mass shootings. These initiatives reflect a growing commitment across Europe to tackle illegal weapons and promote safety.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Euronews
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