Guns given up for peace campaign

Shotguns, handguns and a samurai sword are among the weapons surrendered in a campaign for peace in Manchester.

A total of 25 weapons were handed in to police for the Good Riddance campaign, part of the city's Peace Week.

Although not a formal amnesty, officers urged people to give up guns and knives, with a guarantee that they will not be prosecuted.

Weapons included three shotguns, six handguns (four replicas), 14 knives, a throwing star and a samurai sword.

The campaign is part of a partnership between community group Carisma and Greater Manchester Police.

Community involvement

Carisma, (Community Alliance for Renewal, Inner South Manchester Area), is a group that aims to provide positive alternatives to drugs and gun crime.

Supt Dave Keller, of GMP, said: "What has been most encouraging is the type and variety of weapons that have been handed in, which has included both knives and guns.

"The key to this operation's success has been the involvement of the local community who first asked for it to be a part of Peace Week 2006.

"We have been delighted by the response we have received from the public and are grateful to them for helping to make Manchester's streets safer."