Detectives from the Western Region Crime Squad have made four additional arrests as part of an ongoing investigation into the alleged theft of firearms linked to Bandidos Outlaw Motorcycle Gang (OMCG) members.
The arrests follow an alleged burglary and theft of 17 firearms from a Creswick property on 21 April, 2025.
Yesterday morning, five warrants were executed by detectives from Western Region Crime Squad, and Illicit Firearms Squad at properties in Mount Pleasant (x2), Wendouree, Alfredton and Soldiers Hill.
As a result, police seized:
- 12 firearms and large quantities of ammunition
- 20 swords and a bayonet
- A stolen chainsaw, linked to a burglary in Creswick where 17 firearms where stolen.
- An imitation pistol
- Traffickable quantity of amphetamine and ecstasy
Those arrested this week include:
- A 40-year-old Mount Pleasant man, believed to be a chapter president of the Bandidos OMCG, was arrested after police located and seized a large amount of ammunition and an old war rifle bayonet. He was interviewed for unlicenced person possessing firearm, and possessing a controlled weapon. He is expected to be charged on summons.
- A 37-year-old Wendouree man was arrested and served with a notice of suspension of his firearms licence. During the warrant, police seized nine registered firearms. He is expected to be charged on summons.
- A 31-year-old Mount Pleasant man was arrested after police located and seized 20 swords, and a rifle which was allegedly stolen from a Creswick burglary. He was charged with possess firearm without licence, and possessing prohibited weapons. He was bailed to appear at Ballarat Magistrates' Court on 22 October.
- A 26-year-old Soldiers Hill man, believed to be patched member of the Bandidos OMCG, was arrested after police located and seized an imitation firearm, and a traffickable amount of illicit drugs. He was interviewed for possessing an imitation firearm and trafficking a drug of dependence. He is expected to be charged on summons.
Police have now seized a total of 59 firearms in the past week as part of the investigation.
Anyone with information about illicit firearms, drugs, or OMCG activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au(opens in a new window).
Quotes attributable to Detective Senior Sergeant Matthew Kershaw, Western Region Crime Squad:
"This week's results add to what is now one of the largest firearm seizures we have ever seen in Western Victoria."
"In total, 59 firearms have now been removed from the community- each one representing a potential risk to community safety."
"We will continue to pursue those linked to this alleged offending until every single weapon is accounted for."
