Police Minister Jack Dempsey has commended Queenslanders for surrendering more than 4,000 firearms as part of the state-wide weapons and firearms amnesty.

With just under a month to go, Mr Dempsey said the response to the amnesty had been “exceptional” since it began in February.

“Queenslanders have been handing in around 500 firearms each week and we expect to see this increase towards the April 30 deadline,” Mr Dempsey said.

“This means there are already thousands of unregistered weapons off Queensland streets and I thank the community for embracing this opportunity.

“Just as importantly, the response shows that people do not want to be caught in possession of weapons under the LNP Government’s new minimum mandatory prison sentences for illegal use of firearms.

“The message is simple for those who are considering illegally retaining or using firearms after the amnesty cut off period – disarm now or do time.”

Queensland Police Service Amnesty Project Manager Inspector Peter Assfalg said until April 30, appropriately licensed members of the public could still register previously unregistered firearms through firearms dealers, armourers, firearms sporting clubs as well as police stations.

“The amnesty has been hugely successful to date as it has allowed people who are in possession of an unregistered firearm to make it legitimate without being penalised,” Inspector Assfalg said.

“Additionally, unlicensed owners can apply for a licence and anyone can surrender their unregistered firearm to be destroyed or sold to a firearms dealer.

“Unregistered firearms can be surrendered during the amnesty to local firearms dealers or police stations without prosecution for the possession. Personal details or reasons for the possession may not be required.”

Of the 4,074 weapons presented, 786 have been surrendered for destruction, 3,237 for registration and 51 for safe keeping. Three stolen firearms were recovered.

A Firearms Amnesty Information Line was established to assist with amnesty inquiries (1300 833 548).  The number is operational until April 30, 2013, Monday to Friday from 10am to 6pm.

For more information, call the Firearms Amnesty Information Line on 1300 833 548 or email firearmsamnesty@police.qld.gov.au