weapons or face the full might of the law.

Their warning came amid concern at the response to the firearms amnesty which runs out at midnight.

"We know that there are prohibited weapons including guns that have been subject to specific incidents and have not yet been handed in,'' said Police spokeswoman Insp. Roseanda Jones.

"Our prime concern, as shared by the general public, is getting guns off our streets. Some people have taken advantage of the amnesty.'' She pointed out a special investigative team, headed by Chief Insp. Winston Esdaille, were probing firearms incidents.

They were gathering a "wealth of information'' on guns in the community, she added.

"If these firearms are not handed in during the amnesty, then those persons in possession of them run the risk of being prosecuted,'' she said. "And, as stated earlier, penalties for firearms offences will be drastically increased.

"Every opportunity is being given to those in possession of a firearm to hand them in.

"We are urging members of the public who have any firearms or prohibited weapons in their possession to hand them in now.

"If you would rather not attend a Police station, call us and we will collect them.'' Meanwhile, it has emerged one of the illegal weapons -- a "butterfly knife'' -- has been on sale to the public.

The knives are noted for split handles which open to reveal the blades.

Police say they have been sold by a local distributor who believed they were legal.

And they have appealed for people to hand them in before the amnesty expires.

Police have also warned that certain construction power tools, such as nail guns which operate on compressed air, are prohibited weapons unless the owner has a firearms licence.

"We would encourage users of these tools to apply for a licence during the amnesty,'' said Police spokesman P.c. Gary Venning.

Among items handed in to Police recently are a .22 calibre rifle, and three handguns -- one an imitation.

An imitation shotgun, a quantity of ammunition, 12 cans of chemical mace, a flick knife, several flare pistols, and some fireworks have also been surrendered.

LETHAL WEAPON -- Police spokeswoman Insp. Roseanda Jones with the illegal "butterfly knife''.