A decision to end the use of a dedicated Crimestoppers number as part of a police campaign on firearms security has been welcomed by the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC).
BASC opposed the use of a dedicated Crimestoppers line, which it said was neither necessary nor appropriate and could lead to malicious reporting.
Chief Constable Andy Marsh, the lead on firearms licensing for the Association of Chief Police Officers said the decision had been taken after consultation with shooting organisations.
BASC Chief Executive Richard Ali said: “We welcome this common-sense decision from ACPO. BASC, in common with other organisations, said that the dedicated Crimestoppers line was unnecessary. The decision will allow the police to better focus their resources and reduces the possibility of false and malicious reporting against lawful firearms owners.”
You can read a letter to certificate holders from Chief Constable Andy Marsh here: FELWG LETTER – Certificate holders re initiative 101114
You can see BASC’s advice to members on the security campaign here.