Officials urged those with illegal weapons to turn them in as a monthlong amnesty comes into effect.

While the Criminal Code (Prohibited Weapons) Order 1980 lists 11 items as “prohibited”, a further eight are due to be added including knuckle dusters, extendable friction lock batons and knives disguised to look like other objects.

Andrew Murdoch, the Governor, said the decision to update the prohibited weapons order was made in consultation with the Bermuda Police Service, the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Minister of National Security.

He said: “It is necessary, among other measures, to respond to a concerning rise in incidents involving bladed weapons in Bermuda.

“The new law banning these weapons is proceeded by an amnesty period, and I would encourage anyone who has these dangerous items to dispose of them safely and responsibly.

“The police have made disposal straightforward, anonymous and safe. It is important that these weapons are removed from our streets as soon as possible. There is no excuse for carrying weapons, and those doing so put themselves and others at risk.”

Under the amnesty, which runs from today until December 17, prohibited items can be deposited in any of the safely secured bins that will placed outside the police stations at St David’s, Somerset and Hamilton.

Receptacles will also be installed outside Gorham’s hardware store, with another placed at Warwick Camp.

Those who wish to hand in a firearm, imitation firearm or ammunition are urged not to place them into surrender bins but to instead call the BPS non-emergency number, 211, to arrange for the item to be taken safely.

They can also bring the item to a police station, where it can be safely surrendered to an authorised firearms officer.

Items collected through the amnesty will be disposed of by the Bermuda Police Service.

While the amnesty protects those who turn in items from being prosecuted for “simple possession” of the items, it does not automatically remove liability for unrelated offences.

Michael Weeks, the Minister of National Security, said: “Our priority is the safety and security of the public, and we are committed to doing all we can to keep our communities safe.

“The recent amendments to the Criminal Code are designed to reduce harm and deter the possession and use of unlawful weapons. This amnesty ensures there is a clear, safe and responsible way for individuals to comply with the new law.”

He added: “Our goal is simple — fewer weapons in our neighbourhoods and a safer Bermuda for all. I encourage anyone who may be affected to take advantage of this amnesty.

“By doing so, you are helping to protect our families, our communities and our future. Working together, we can reduce violence, prevent harm and continue to build a more secure Bermuda.”

Commissioner of Police Darrin Simons said: “We will continue to work with the community to make our streets and Bermuda safer.

“Surrender bins offer a no-questions-asked option to dispose of prohibited items — please use them.”