Searches conducted by Tasmania Police as part of Operation Unification have so far resulted in firearms possession charges against three people.

A 40-year-old-man from New Norfolk, a 42-year-old man from Hobart and a 24-year-old man from Hobart will all face court in coming weeks for possession of unregistered firearms.

Operation Unification – Illegal Guns Off Our Streets is a national initiative to get illegal guns out of circulation and is now heading into its second and final week.

A special amnesty day in Launceston yesterday saw 10 guns handed in.

Detective Senior Sergeant Craig Joel said:

“We’re very pleased with the community’s response and the outcomes so far.

“Police have seized three illicit firearms and ammunition since last weekend, including two handguns and one rifle.

“Also coming out of the targetted searches have been other charges including fisheries offences, drugs and family violence.

“The amnesties are a positive step towards getting unwanted and illicit firearms out of our community

“The 10 guns handed in at Launceston are 10 guns that cannot now be stolen and cannot end up being used in crimes.

“The Unification taskforce and frontline officers will continue with more targeted searches next week.”

Another Operation Unification amnesty will be held tomorrow at Sorell Police Station, between 10am – 2pm.

Police officers will be in attendance to provide advice on storage and licence requirements.

Gun owners are reminded that a permanent amnesty still applies and firearms can be taken to any police station and safely disposed of.