Liam McNally
A loaded shotgun, ammunition, explosives, various drugs and cash were seized by police during a Firearm Prohibition Orders (FPO) blitz on 17 properties including in Melton, Moorabool and Brimbank on Wednesday, March 29.
Targeting FPO holders, the blitz formed part of an operation to disrupt and deter illicit firearms use across the state.
Police said items were seized at seven properties.
They said Cannabis plants were seized from an address in Melton West, blank driver’s licences and imprinting machines were seized at an address in Darley and a quantity of prescription drugs and a quantity of white powder were seized at a Delahey address.
Firearm Prohibition Orders are a legislative provision that give police specific powers to proactively respond to, disrupt and prevent firearm-related crime in Victoria.
Once issued, an FPO remains in effect for 10 years for adults and five years for children between 14 and 17 years of age.
During that time, the individual is prohibited from acquiring, possessing, carrying or using any firearm related item such as ammunition.
The charges relating to FPOs include up to 10 years imprisonment for acquiring, possessing, carrying or using a firearm or firearm related item.
Illicit Firearms Squad Detective acting inspector Ash Ryan said firearms-related violence is one of the “most significant issues we face, however the majority of what are seeing involves targeted attacks between criminals”.
“Victoria Police is tackling this issue from all sides – strong enforcement, targeted disruption, a focus on intelligence gathering and working with government to strengthen legislative powers,” Detective Ryan said.
“The implementation of the Illicit Firearms Squad in 2020, complemented by the creation of the VIPER Taskforce in 2022, has given an increased focus on illicit firearms related offending.”
