Tasmania Police on Wednesday (14 January) conducted a large-scale, coordinated operation across multiple locations in southern Tasmania targeting illegal firearms and illicit drugs.

The operation involved uniformed officers and detectives from Bridgewater, Glenorchy, Hobart and New Norfolk, supported by specialist units, to conduct searches of multiple residential properties across greater Hobart and the Derwent Valley.

Inspector Luke Horne said the targeted searches resulted in 10 offenders being charged, with several detained for court, as police continue efforts to disrupt the possession and use of illegal firearms in the community.

“Every illegally possessed or criminally misused firearm represents a serious threat to community safety,” Inspector Horne said.

“Police are working hard to remove illegal firearms from the community and to ensure that registered firearms are secured properly, and that firearms owners are using those firearms in the manner for which they are licensed.

“We are determined that illegal firearms, including 3D-printed firearms, are not in the wrong hands.”
Inspector Horne said the series of searches conducted today utilised intelligence gained from members of the public and anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers.

“Police thank those members of the community who shared concerns about illegal firearms, and we continue to encourage anyone that has information about the use and possession of illegal firearms to report it, either to police directly on 131 444 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au.”

Items seized during today’s operation included:
* 8 firearms
* A quantity of ammunition
* Illicit drugs (ICE, cannabis, and steroids)
* About $26,000 in cash
* Three stolen vehicles
* A motorcycle seized under hooning legislation