Police have charged two men after firearms were stolen in the Riverina region, NSW Police say.
In June 2018, officers from Riverina Police District formed Strike Force Panipat to investigate three break-and-enter incidents at homes in Moorong, Mt Austin and Ashmont, and an attempt to steal a vehicle in Ashmont.
It will be alleged six firearms were stolen.
As part of the investigation, police executed a search warrant at a unit in Travers Street, Wagga Wagga, about 1pm on Thursday 19 July 2018.
Officers seized several items, including a firearm and ammunition.
A 25-year-old man was arrested near the property and charged with possession of an unauthorised firearm, not keep firearm safely, possess ammunition without holding licence/permit, contravene prohibition/restriction in AVO (domestic), and resist or hinder police officer in the execution of duty.
He remains before the courts.
Following further inquiries, police executed a search warrant at a property on Mumford Street, Ashmont, yesterday (Tuesday 25 September 2018).
Officers seized several items, including two trail bikes, bike parts, and several car keys.
A 19-year-old man was arrested near the home following a short foot pursuit and taken to Wagga Police Station.
He was charged with break, enter and steal (x2), steal firearm (x6), take and drive conveyance without consent of owner, enter land with intent to commit indictable offence, aggravated break and enter to commit serious indictable offence, and goods suspected of being stolen on premises.
He was refused bail to appear at Wagga Wagga Local Court today (Wednesday 26 September 2018).
All firearms owners are urged to:
- Store your firearm, bolt and ammunition securely and separately;
- Ensure any tools which could be used to break into firearms safes are not stored nearby;
- Ensure any keys or combinations for gun storage safes are kept secure and separate from the safes; and,
- Be cautious about who has knowledge of your firearms licence status and where your firearms are stored.
