MORE than 700 firearms have been seized in a five-year operation to stop easily convertible replica guns entering the UK.
Police have made 74 arrests, leading to 50 convictions, and searched 133 premises.
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More than 700 firearms have been seized in a five-year operation to stop easily convertible replica guns entering the UK Credit: PA
The scheme has been led by the National Crime Agency, working with the Guardia Civil in Spain, UK police, Border Force and international gun-sellers.
In all, 703 firearms have been recovered since Project Vizardlike’s launch in 2019
It has targeted so-called forward venting blank firearms — which resemble guns such as Glocks — and can be converted into lethal weapons.
Roy Godding, head of the NCA National Firearms Targeting Centre, said: “Our analysis showed a trend of serious and organised criminals wanting this weapon.”
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The NCA has worked with the border force to identify packages containing firearms from abroad.
One man was jailed for 11 years after 26 firearms were found at his home.
Seven cases have involved a potential terror threat.
NCA deputy director Charles Yates said: “Very significant levels of harm have undoubtedly been prevented.”
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