Provincial police and municipal law enforcement collected a total of 2,793 unwanted guns and 12,615 unwanted pieces of ammunition in April as part of Ontario’s Gun Amnesty initiative.

Police said in a media release Thursday that most of these guns will be destroyed, but some will be kept “for historical, educational or training purposes.”

“I'm so proud of the collaboration demonstrated by members of the OPP and all of our municipal partners during the gun amnesty,” said OPP Commissioner J.V.N. (Vince) Hawkes.

“The results clearly show the public was engaged and supported our combined efforts to reduce the number of firearms, accessories and ammunition in their communities, which then enhances public and police officer safety.”

Of the 698 items submitted through appointment, provincial police collected 267 rifles, 156 shotguns, 113 prohibited firearms and 62 vintage, replica or other guns.

Police are encouraging the public to continue submitting unwanted weapons and ammunition despite the campaigns conclusion.

You may arrange for an officer to come and pick up your firearm by phoning provincial police at 1-888-310-1122, or by phoning the non-emergency number of your local police. Do not attempt to bring the guns or ammunition to police stations yourself.

Police said they will always “exercise discretion” regarding weapons-related charges.

To learn more about Canada’s firearms program, go to rcmp-grc.gc.ca/cfp-pcaf/index-eng.htm.