The number of shootings in Merseyside have been lower this year than at any time in the past 20 years, according to police.
And Merseyside Police has made significant breakthroughs in targeting organised criminals responsible for gun crime, according to a report published by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC).
The report revealed that detectives have reinvestigated shootings involving so called "active linked series weapons" - determining that seven guns have been used for around 50 shootings in the past 10 years.
This year the force has recorded 43 firearms discharges up until November.
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Although this figure includes tragedy such as the murder of Litherland man Michael Rainsford, it is almost half the 82 firearms discharges recorded in 2019.
The report, part of an overview into serious organised crime presented to PCC Jane Kennedy by the force, said: "During the calendar year 2020 there have been 43 firearm discharges to date (November). This is the lowest figure for the last 20 years and considerably lower than last year (2019) which was 82.
"In conjunction with fewer discharges, the detection rate has also increased and notable investigations thus far have included the charging of more than 13 people believed to be responsible for committing a number of separate discharges during 2020.
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"Merseyside Police have introduced a dedicated Firearm Investigation Team in January 2020 who have investigated all firearm discharges in 2020 and firearm recoveries linked to Organised Crime Gangs (OCGs) and ongoing investigations.
"The team have also reinvestigated seven active linked series weapons which have been involved in more than 50 discharges dating back almost 10 years.
"This approach is being recognised regionally and nationally by Regional Organised Crime Units ROCU), National Ballistics Intelligence Service (NaBIS) and other forces as best practice which is being shared across the country.
"The quality of investigations have undoubtedly increased which is evident through the improved detection rate, service to the community and victims."
