Police have charged a Beaconsfield man with firearm and drug related offences following a vehicle search in Launceston yesterday. 

Around 5.55pm police were called to McDonalds on Howick Street for what was reported as a person inside a parked vehicle being in possession of a firearm. 

Police arrived and searched the vehicle of interest – a yellow Ford XR6 sedan. 

As a result of the search four men were taken into police custody. 

A 21-year-old man from Beaconsfield has been charged with several firearm and drug related offences. He was bailed to appear before the Launceston Magistrates Court on 4 January 2023.

Three other men were released without charge. 

“Police would like to reassure the community that at no stage was the firearm produced or used to threaten any person,” said Inspector Nathan Johnston. 

“The community can be assured that police take all firearms crime seriously. This is an example of a firearm offence being reported and through swift action by Tasmania Police the offenders were quickly located and arrested.”  

Anyone with an information about this matter, or any other information relating to illegal firearms can contact the Launceston Police Station on 131 444, or report online to crimestopperstas.com.au – information can be provided anonymously.