Police say 354 guns including an Uzi submachine gun and four AK-47-style assault rifles were turned in during a one-day gun buyback program in the Bronx.
The guns were brought into three churches on Saturday in exchange for bank cards worth up to $600.
Police Commissioner Raymond Kellysaid turning in guns prevents the weapons from getting into the hands of criminals.
“The gun buy-backs are one way the public can help police to stop the scourge of deadly weapons that are circulating on City streets,” Kelly said in a statement. “I commend those who turned in firearms. They prevented guns from getting into the hands of criminals, and have helped to save innocent lives.”
Bronx District Attorney Robert Johnson said every gun that was removed from circulation represents an increased measure of protection against serious injury and worse.
People who want to turn in guns anonymously can also do so at police stations throughout New York City.
