Police divers made the surprise discovery of a submerged shotgun during a recent routine training exercise in the Huon River at Ranelagh.

Kingston Division Inspector Col Riley said members of the Tasmania Police Dive Squad were training off the jetty near Flat Rock, Ranelagh, when the firearm was found.

“During the course of the training, divers located an apparently functional shotgun submerged in the water,” Inspector Riley said.

“The firearm has been seized and will undergo forensic examination as part of routine inquiries.

“With the increasing popularity of magnet fishing and other water-based recreational activities, police are thankful that this weapon was recovered before potentially falling into the wrong hands.”

Inspector Riley said the incident on September 15 was a reminder that Tasmania Police operates a permanent firearms amnesty, allowing members of the public to hand in unregistered or unwanted firearms, and ammunition, at any police station without fear of prosecution.

“The safety of our community is our priority. We encourage anyone in possession of unwanted or illegal firearms to take advantage of the amnesty,” he said.

Anyone with information regarding illegal firearms can report to police on 131 444 or anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.