POLICE WILL CONTINUE TO SEIZE ILLEGAL WEAPONS IN EASTERN CROATIA

( Editorial: --> 3256 ) ZAGREB, Jan 9 (Hina) - The voluntary and penalty-free handing over of weapons, ammunition and explosive devices undertaken by the Croatian Interior Ministry in eastern Croatia between December 27 and 30 had, due to demand by local population and representatives of local government and self-government, been extended until January 5. According to a statement of the Croatian Assistant Interior Minister's Office, in the said period the residents of eastern Croatia handed over 303,637 pieces of ammunition, 1,823 bombs, 100 kg of explosive, 1,506 mines and rockets, 137 hand rocket launchers, 677 rifles, 71 machine guns, eight revolvers, two bullet-proof jackets, 31 masking equipment kits, 1,420 cartridge belts, 310 fuses, and 717 pieces of explosive devices. The police will continue to seize illegal weapons, ammunition and explosive devices from all residents of eastern Croatia and take adequate measures, the office said. (hina) ha mm 091246 MET jan 98