Police have seized several illegal firearms and charged two people with various offences as part of an investigation in the Lower Barrington area.

On 17 September, police received an official report in relation to an incident at a Lower Barrington residence on 14 September, where a 45-year-old man had sustained serious injuries after being assaulted by a man who was known to him.

On 19 September, police including specialist resources, arrested a 40-year-old man in the Beechford area in relation to the assault. He was charged with causing grievous bodily harm and detained to appear before the Launceston Magistrates Court.

As part of the investigation, police conducted a search at a Beechford residence and located several illegal firearms including a sawn-off shotgun, a rifle, six homemade pistols, an antique pistol, two imitation firearms (gel blasters) and two crossbows (one homemade).

A 53-year-old man – who was not involved in the assault – has been charged with several firearms related offences including possess a firearm when not the holder of a firearm licence, possess shortened firearm, possess a crossbow, and deal in firearms when not the holder of a firearms dealer licence. He was bailed to appear before the Launceston Magistrates Court on 22 October.

“Every illegal firearm in our community is a concern to Tasmania Police, and poses a risk to public safety,” said Detective Inspector Michelle Elmer.

“Firearms, particularly homemade ones, are unpredictable and extremely dangerous. They pose a significant threat to the community.”

“Police remain committed to removing illegal weapons from our streets and we urge anyone with information in relation to illicit firearms to help us by providing information.”

Information can be provided to police on 131 444 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers Tasmania at crimestopperstas.com.au or on 1800 333 000.

Under Tasmania’s permanent firearms amnesty people can surrender illegal or unwanted firearms, firearm parts, ammunition, or gel blasters that have the appearance of a firearm at any time without fear of being prosecuted for the possession.