A TOTAL of 12 replica and de-commissioned weapons were handed over to police officers called to a property in the Luton area of Chatham.

The look-a-like rifles, handguns and even grenades were seized and later destroyed by the neighbourhood officers who discovered them after searching the house.

Officers went to the house as part of an unrelated enquiry on Friday, February 1.

The action was overseen by neighbourhood officer Pc Dave Saunders, who said: "Carrying imitation or decommissioned firearms in a public place is an offence for which we can make arrests. By destroying these weapons we are preventing them from getting into the wrong hands or being used in a crime.

"We will do everything we can to make Medway a safer place and officers will continue to remain vigilant and utilise all opportunities presented to them to get such weaponry off of the streets."

Team leader for the area, Sgt Alex Bain, said: "Some people may feel that no harm can come of having imitation and decommissioned weapons in their home. However, I would urge these people to consider the potential consequences of owning such items.

"Even if they personally do not intend to take them outdoors, the firearm could be stolen, used in a crime or used to intimidate or frighten someone.

"If you would like advice on how to dispose of replica guns safely, they should "ontact the police.’