Firearm theft on Victorian farms and rural properties at five-year low
Victoria has seen a dramatic drop in firearm and ammunition theft on rural properties and farms in the past year. See how the numbers have changed.
THERE has been a dramatic drop in firearm and ammunition theft on rural properties and farms in Victoria, with it now at a five-year low.
Crime Statistics Agency Victoria data revealed just 27 firearms and/or ammunition worth $6470 was stolen in 2019-20, compared with 134, worth $62,619, the year before – which was at a 15-year high.
Over the last 15 years, more than $333,000 worth of firearms and ammunition has been stolen from rural properties and farms.
Victoria Police Farm Crime Inspector Karl Curran said police had initiated firearms safety campaigns and amnesties to have unused firearms handed in to reduce the number of firearms in the community.
“We have also increased our compliance checks on firearms storage ensuring that all firearms are stored safely and securely,” he said. “This focus and media campaigns are seeing positive results.”
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