Police seized two firearms and a quantity of ammunition during a targeted search of a property in the state’s Midlands last week.

The items – including a .22 calibre rifle and a single barrel 12-gauge shotgun – were originally owned by a deceased licence holder however, had subsequently come into the possession of a person not licensed to possess firearms.

During the search, officers from Tasmania Police’s Firearms Services located one of the firearms behind a cabinet in a shed. None of the items were stored in accordance with Tasmania’s legal storage requirements.

Tasmania Police reminds community members that firearm ownership carries strict legal responsibilities.

Anyone in possession of a firearm must be licensed and comply with the Firearms Act 1996, including requirements for safe storage, proper licensing, and ensuring firearms do not transfer unlawfully after a licence holder’s death.

The Firearms Act exists to protect the Tasmanian community and ensure firearms are only held by people who meet the legal standards of safety and responsibility.

If you have information about unlawful firearm possession, unsafe storage, or any suspicious firearm related activity in your community, contact police on 131 444 or report anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au