A national firearms amnesty for a specific type of gun is taking place from Monday until the 28 February.
It gives the public the opportunity to surrender Turkish-manufactured Top-Venting Blank Firers (TVBFs) before they become illegal in the UK.
From March 2025, it will be a criminal offence to own one of these blank-firing guns, with anyone found in possession facing prosecution and a prison sentence of up to 10 years.
What is a Top-Venting Blank Firer (TVBF)?
TVBFs are blank-firing firearms with fully blocked barrels, originally designed to discharge only blank cartridges. While legal to purchase in the UK by adults over 18, they have increasingly been linked to criminal activity.
Why are they being banned?
TVBFs can be converted into live-firing weapons, making them highly sought after by criminals looking to turn a profit. Since 2021, police have recovered more than 800 TVBFs in the UK, with the firearms being used in serious offences, including at least four homicides since 2023.
Chief Inspector Tim Harrison said:
“By handing in these weapons during the amnesty, owners are ensuring they don’t end up in the wrong hands. While many owners may have bought them legally and for innocent reasons, these firearms can be modified and sold for criminal use.
“This is a genuine opportunity to safely surrender your TVBF without fear of prosecution. If you’re unsure whether your firearm is included in the ban, it’s best to hand it in – don’t take the risk.”
How to hand in a TVBF
The amnesty allows people to safely dispose of their TVBFs at designated police stations. You will not be prosecuted for possession, and you can remain anonymous if you wish.
However, no compensation will be offered, as these firearms will soon be illegal under UK law.
TVBF models included in the amnesty
The following brands of TVBFs must be surrendered:
- BLOW
- CEONIC
- EKOL
- RETAY
Where to hand in a TVBF
You can surrender TVBFs at the following police stations:
- Bridlington Police Station, Ashville St, YO16 4EW
- Clough Road Police Station, Clough Rd, HU5 1SW
- Scunthorpe Police Station, 26 Corporation Rd, DN15 6QB
- Grimsby Police Station, Victoria St S, DN31 1PE
- Beverley Police Station, New Walk, HU17 7AF
- Barton Police Station, Holydyke, DN18 5PR
- Pocklington Police Station, 37 George St, YO42 2DH
- Driffield Police Station, Wansford Rd, YO25 5NB
To ensure safe transport:
- Place the item in a bag or box to keep it out of public sight.
- Make a specific journey to a designated station, avoiding unnecessary stops.
- Inform staff at the front counter upon arrival before presenting the firearm.
If you fail to surrender your TVBF before the amnesty ends, you could face prosecution and up to 10 years in prison.
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