Police seized five firearms and a quantity of ammunition during a targeted traffic patrol in relation to illegal poaching over the weekend.

“In response to recent reports of illegal poaching of both sheep and deer in the Central Highlands area, police from Oatlands, Liawenee and Kempton conducted targeted patrols over the weekend between Bothwell and Liawenee,” said Senior Sergeant Mark Williams.  

“Police intercepted multiple vehicles and checked all relevant licences and firearms to ensure they complied with storage requirements while travelling.”

“During the evening, police intercepted a vehicle containing four men who were all in possession of loaded firearms. Several hundred rounds of live ammunition and spent cartridges were also inside the vehicle.”

Police seized the five firearms and all the ammunition from the vehicle.

The four men will be proceeded against in relation to firearm and ammunition offences.

“This is a timely reminder that all firearm licence holders must strictly adhere to all firearms laws and adhere to best practice relating to the safe storage and transport of firearms and ammunition in vehicles.”