Rocherlea incident

A police operation was undertaken in Launceston today regarding an ongoing investigation into a serious crime.

The operation in Sassafras Court, Rocherlea, successfully secured the safe release of a man who we believe was being held against his will.

It will be alleged that the 35 year old man from Victoria went missing on Wednesday in circumstances involving the use of a firearm. Concerns for his welfare were reported to police shortly after.   A demand for money in return for his release was received. Police treated the matter as a kidnapping.

Through extensive investigations in a relatively short space of time involving Western and Northern District police, the man was today located at a property in Sassafras Court, Rocherlea.

Specialist police contained the property around 2pm and negotiated the man’s safe release.  Seven other people, 6 men and a woman are now in custody following negotiations with police at the residence.

The investigation into this matter will take some time and Detectives from Launceston and Devonport CIB are working closely on the matter.  Charges have not yet been laid.

From the outset, our priority in this operation was the safety of the 35 year old man, and I once again congratulate our officers involved for their professionalism and skill throughout the operation.

I also thank the local community in Rocherlea for their patience and understanding.  The circumstances surrounding the police involvement may have been confronting for some, and the Police Command bus will remain in the area for those residents who require any type of assistance, information or to allay any concerns they may have.

I reiterate that the operation was conducted in a very controlled manner and at no stage were any members of the public at risk.

Brett Smith

Commander, Northern District