Two men have been charged after being caught allegedly attempting to steal copper wiring from a Bell Bay business overnight.

Police were called to the scene at the Bell Bay Power Station around 9.15pm last night following a report that two men were trespassing on the site.

Police quickly arrested the pair as they attempted to flee the scene, with a 30-year-old George Town man being located in possession of a shortened firearm.

The 30-year-old George Town man has been charged with several offences, including stealing, trespass and firearms offences and was detained to appear in the Launceston Magistrates Court at 11.30am today.

A 31-year-old George Town man has been charged with stealing and trespass and will appear in the Launceston Magistrates Court on 27 May.