RCMP say several individuals in the Upper Fraser Valley have shown up to local detachments looking to relinquish guns under the Federal Assault‑Style Firearms Compensation Program.
“While we appreciate the public’s efforts to comply with this program, we would like to remind firearm owners that arriving at a detachment with unsecured or unregistered firearms is a criminal offence,” said Cpl. Carmen Kiener, RCMP spokesperson for the Upper Fraser Valley Regional Detachment.
Anyone participating in the program receives “direct instructions” on how to schedule a collection appointment through the online the Public Safety Canada portal.
“If you have a firearm to relinquish and have not registered for this program, please call your local detachment non-emergency phone number,” Carmen added.
The non-emergency number for Chilliwack RCMP is 604-792-4611. Details on how to register for the program, and dispose of firearms are on the federal program page.
“While participating in the program is voluntary, compliance with the law is not,” according to the Public Safety Canada page.
“Individual firearm owners must safely dispose of or permanently deactivate their assault-style firearms before the amnesty period ends on October 30, 2026, or risk criminal liability for the illegal possession of a prohibited firearm.”