Police have seized military ordnance and ammunition, including the magazine for a 1915-era light machine gun, during the inspection of a Sandy Bay property.
Officers from Tasmania Police Firearms Services conducted the firearms compliance inspection on Tuesday and located and seized:
• One imitation Luger pistol
• One Austen Mark I machine carbine action and magazine
• One rotary disc magazine for a 1915 Lewis Gun, which was not secured as required
• Ammunition not stored and secured in accordance with legislative requirements
• Various items of military ordnance.
Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the licence holder's possession and storage of the seized items are continuing. No charges have been laid at this time.
Sergeant Stephen Bugg of Firearms Services reminded firearm owners of their obligations to ensure firearms, firearm parts, and ammunition were stored securely and in accordance with legislative requirements.
"Police also remind the community that possession of ex-military firearms and ex-military ordnance is regulated under the Firearms Act 1996. Under section 13A of the Act, a person must not possess an ex-military firearm or ex-military ordnance unless they hold a relevant authorisation," he said.
"Anyone who discovers, or comes into possession of military ordnance, including military munitions, explosives, grenades, shell casings, or other military-related items, should not handle the item. Instead, they should contact Tasmania Police immediately for advice and assistance."
Sergeant Bugg said members of the public uncertain about the legality of any firearm, firearm part, ammunition, or military ordnance in their possession, should contact Tasmania Police on 131 444 for guidance.
