Police operation targets unlawful firearms across Western Downs with 17 people charged

A massive two-day police operation raided 27 homes across Dalby, Chinchilla, Tara, Miles and Jandowae, unveiling dozens of firearms and ending with 17 people charged with 38 offences. SEE THE VIDEO.

A two-day police operation across the Western Downs has uncovered an arsenal of homemade weaponry and dangerous drugs.

On Wednesday and Thursday detectives from Dalby, the Dog Squad and the Major and Organised Crime Squad executed 12 search warrants across the Dalby area, with a further 10 raids conducted across homes in Dalby, Chinchilla, Tara, Miles and Jandowae.

In total, 17 people have been charged with 38 offences including a 71-year-old Dalby man who was allegedly in possession of eight homemade operational handguns (primarily .22 calibre), as well as other weapons.

He was charged with one count each of unlawful possession with weapons (10 or more), manufacture weapon while not licensed and authority required to possess explosives and is due to appear at Dalby Magistrates Court on August 29.

Police also charged a 39-year-old Kogan woman with one count each of producing dangerous drugs, possessing dangerous drugs, possess utensils and offence to deal with prohibited substances, and is due to appear at Dalby Magistrates Court on October 25.

Police have charged 17 people with 38 offences as part of a two-day operation targeting unlawful firearms and drugs on the Western Downs.

Detective Chief Inspector Garry Watts said the operation highlighted the Queensland Police Service’s commitment to remove unlawful weapons and dangerous drugs from our rural and regional communities.

“We have seen time and time again the risk of firearms in the wrong hands; disrupting this alleged criminal activity is a priority in order to keep our communities safe,” Chief Inspector Watts said.

Police have charged 17 people with 38 offences as part of a two-day operation targeting unlawful firearms and drugs on the Western Downs.

“If you know something in relation to this sort of criminal activity, it is vital information is provided to police, so we can investigate and put offenders before the court.”

If you have an unregistered or unwanted firearm, you are encouraged to safely surrender it to police or a lawful dealer.

Police are appealing to anyone with information to come forward. Anonymous reports can be made.

If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day or call 131 444.

Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or report online.

Originally published as Police operation targets unlawful firearms across Western Downs with 17 people charged