Prohibited pump action and self loading guns recovered by police in alleged firearm trafficking bust

Police have recovered 18 firearms in an alleged trafficking bust on a rural Tasmanian property. Among the guns were prohibited pump action and self loaded shotguns and rifles.

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POLICE have charged a 38-year-old Stonehenge man with trafficking in firearms after finding 18 guns and various types of ammunition at a remote, rural property on Wednesday.

The Tasmania Police investigation also led to the man being charged with unlawful possession of more than $100,000 worth of goods including mountain bikes, an electric bike, heavy machinery parts and power tools.

Among the firearms recovered were category D and category C prohibited firearms as well as three replica handguns.

Category D includes self loading and pump action shotguns with a capacity of more than five rounds and self-loading rifles with a capacity of more than 10 rounds.

A stolen vehicle was also recovered from the property.

The man is to appear in the Hobart Magistrates Court later today.

A Tasmania Police spokesperson said the force would continue its focus on recovering illicit firearms in the community and investigating firearm theft to ensure the safety of Tasmanians.

“Police would also like to take this opportunity to remind the public of the permanent firearms amnesty in place,” they said.

Anyone who has information that would assist the police investigation is asked to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000.