Quickly exit this site by pressing the Escape key Leave this site
We use some essential cookies to make our website work. We’d like to set additional cookies so we can remember your preferences and understand how you use our site.
You can manage your preferences and cookie settings at any time by clicking on “Customise Cookies” below. For more information on how we use cookies, please see our Cookies notice.
Your cookie preferences have been saved. You can update your cookie settings at any time on the cookies page.
Your cookie preferences have been saved. You can update your cookie settings at any time on the cookies page.
Sorry, there was a technical problem. Please try again.
This site is a beta, which means it's a work in progress and we'll be adding more to it over the next few weeks. Your feedback helps us make things better, so please let us know what you think.
Police are urging licensed firearms owners to ensure their firearms are secure to prevent them from falling into the wrong hands.
Each autumn, police in Bedfordshire typically see an increase in reports of the theft or loss of firearms.
Detective Chief Inspector James Panter said: “We know that licensed firearm holders in the UK are amongst the most responsible members of our society.
“However, mistakes can happen and firearms can occasionally be left unsecured either in a house, club or vehicle.
“Unsecured firearms represent a real threat to public safety – they are more vulnerable to falling into criminal hands, or being involved in accidents.
“That’s why we’re reminding firearm certificate holders, registered firearms dealers, members of shooting clubs and anyone involved in the shooting community to take the time to ensure their firearms and ammunition are secure at all times.
“We are also urging those who will be taking their firearms to events such as organised shoots to plan their journeys and consider the implications of having their firearms with them as they travel.
“Don’t leave them in your vehicle unattended. Ensure all firearms are properly secured in slips or boxes, and locked in vehicles out of view when in transit and when at the event, make sure you firearm is never left unsecured or unattended. ”
Certificates to hold firearms are issued with strict conditions stipulating the safe and secure possession of firearms at all times, including laws on how guns should be kept secure when out and about. Failure to comply with these conditions could lead to prosecution and/ or the authority to hold firearms being withdrawn.
For further information about firearms licensing, visit Firearms licensing | Bedfordshire Police.
If you are a licensed firearm holder and you notice anyone acting suspicious around your house or club, please contact police immediately on 101.