Detectives from across Wyndham, Hobsons Bay and Maribyrnong last week joined forces to execute 25 firearm prohibition order (FPO) compliance checks across the north-west.
The two-day blitz saw officers search the properties of those with active FPOs to disrupt and deter illicit firearms use.
During a search in Tarneit, officers located an imitation handgun and a firearm magazine.
A 20-year-old man was arrested and charged with prohibited person possess imitation firearm and commit indictable offence whilst on bail.
He was remanded in custody to face court at a later date.
A subsequent search in Werribee located an imitation handgun and a quantity of methylamphetamine.
The 22-year-old man was arrested and charged with prohibited person possess firearm, possess drugs of dependence and handle stolen goods.
Furthers searches located another imitation firearm, cannabis, steroids and a stolen vehicle.
An FPO prevents a person from acquiring, possessing or using a firearm or firearm related items, as well as entering certain premises such as firearms dealerships and shooting ranges.
Once an FPO is served on a person, they are searched and a further search is conducted of their premises and vehicle.
As the order is linked directly to the person, not a specific location, police can search any property where the individual is located.
Detective acting inspector Caroline Johnson said, “Our ability to search those subject to an FPO at any time means they are a crucial tool in the prevention and disruption of firearms-related offending”.
“The fact that only two in 25 people searched were found with firearm-related material means these orders are really having an impact.
“We know they serve as a strong deterrent as every person subject to an FPO knows how severe the penalties are if caught.
“Our top priority is keeping the community safe so we’ll continue making it as difficult as possible for those with FPOs to carry firearms.”
