Detectives from Launceston CIB have announced a significant breakthrough in Operation Agenda, targeting firearm crime in the Northern District.

This morning 2 men were arrested in relation to the shooting of another man at Lilydale Road on 28 May 2013.

In that incident a man was shot in the leg at close range with a .22 calibre pistol.  The man was at a shed on the property at the time and he received a broken leg.

The two men arrested this morning are brothers who are currently living at Hillwood.  They are aged 29 and 31.  Both men will appear in the Launceston Magistrates Court at 2.15 today, charged with grievous bodily harm, wounding, aggravated assault and firearm offences.

“Police in the Northern District are focussed on firearm crime and we continue to go after the criminals responsible,” said Commander Richard Cowling.

“Detectives forming Operation Agenda are throwing considerable resources at these crimes.  We’re undertaking a range of activities focussing on prevention and response.”

“Firearm crime will not be tolerated.  The use of firearms to intimidate, retaliate or resolve disputes in private or public settings is unacceptable,” said Commander Cowling.

“People involved in these disputes are known to each other and are extremely reluctant to assist police,” he said.

“The community has a role in solving these crimes, and I want to acknowledge the assistance that members of the public have provided that led to these arrests.”

People who have information relating to any firearms or other crimes are asked to contact police or report anonymously to Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000.