April 2, 2020
Police are urging firearms owners to exercise vigilance after a spate of recent thefts.
Southern Regional Crime Co-ordinator, Detective Acting Superintendent Mat Kelly, said it was the responsibility of all weapons licence holders to secure their firearms safely and in accordance with the Weapons Act.
“Unfortunately, criminals still continue to target rural properties to steal weapons for the black market,” Detective Acting Superintendent Kelly said.
“We receive regular intelligence suggesting organised crime syndicates are coming into our rural communities to steal firearms.”
He said complacency was the leading cause of the increase in thefts.
“The recent increase in thefts have mainly been from firearms left unsecured in vehicles or storage sheds,” he said.
“We would like to remind licenced firearm holders they have a responsibility under the Weapons Act to store weapons correctly. Those who do not can expect prosecution.”
Police continue to conduct spot-checks to ensure owners are compliant.
