New Norfolk man charged with drug trafficking, firearm offences

A man has been hit with a raft of charges, including drug trafficking and firearm offences, after a police raid at his property near Hobart yesterday. VIDEO + PHOTOS>>

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Man arrested after house raid

Thursday, May 25

Four firearms, 16 bags of cannabis, more than 300 rounds of ammunition and stacks of cash were part a major haul from a targeted search operation in New Norfolk on Thursday.

Police conducted the search in New Norfolk after receiving information and assistance from the community.

Det. Act. Insp. Matthew Adams of Tasmania Police southern drug investigation services said a 23 year old man was arrested and faces a string of charges, including trafficking in a controlled substance and possession of firearms.

He’s due to appear in court on July 4.

“The operation resulted in the seizure of four illegal firearms, two of which have been confirmed as stolen,” Mr Adams said.

“It was a significant quantity of drugs, it was a combination of cannabis, cocaine, MDMA and also prescription pills.”

Mr Adams said the haul would go a long way to minimising harm.

“Any drugs on our streets is an issue so to be able to remove that quantity of drugs prior to it reaching our community where it can cause harm is a significant win for Tasmania police,” he said.

“The concerning factor is that it was a combination of illicit drugs and fire arms, that’s our biggest concern.”

Mr Adams said there was still work to be done to tackle illegal firearms in the community.

“We take every opportunity to take illegal firearms off our streets by having a permanent amnesty in place,” Mr Adams said.

“Carrying out random firearms storage inspections and investigating diligently when firearms incidents or thefts occur.”

As of July 1st 2021, 632 items, including firearms, ammunition batches and firearms parts have been surrendered to Tasmania Police firearms services through the permanent amnesty.

“Police know there are illicit firearms in the community that have been obtained illegally and unwanted firearms which have been in people’s possession for many years,” Mr Adams said.

“Community members can help us keep everyone safe by reporting information to police and crime stoppers.”

Drunk driver caught three times over the limit

Tuesday, May 24

Tasmania Police are pleading for drivers to take road safety seriously after a drunk driver was caught at New Norfolk on the final day of National Road Safety, driving three times over the legal alcohol limit.

The 42-year-old was intercepted by officers on Pioneer Avenue on Sunday around 2:35pm when he was breath tested and returned a reading of 0.17.

The Granton man was charged and his licence was suspended for two years. He will appear in court at a later date.

The incident comes as the state records its 28th fatality for 2022.

In comparison, at this time last year, 10 Tasmanians lost their lives on local roads.

“Drink driving puts people’s lives at risk, and it won’t be tolerated,” said Inspector Philippa Burk.

“We’d like to thank the majority of Tasmanians who have been doing their part in making our roads safer - it’s clear we need to change some motorists’ attitudes and behaviours, and we can do that best with the community’s support.”

Man’s body found in Tamar River

Tuesday, May 24

The body of an 80-year-old man has been found in the Tamar River after he went missing while rowing at Launceston this morning.

Officers were notified that the man was missing when his unmanned boat was found on the river around 10am.

A search was launched and with assistance from members of the public the man’s body was found in the water shortly before 11:30am.

Tasmania Police confirmed that the man died in non-suspicious circumstances.

A report will be prepare for the coroner.