Each year, hundreds of firearms are stolen from regional and remote communities, many ending up in the hands of criminals and used in violent crimes, Queensland Police say.
"In the last 10 years we have seen an increase in the number of firearms reported stolen across Queensland. Unfortunately, many criminals see farming communities as a vulnerable source for their firearms. We have seen firearms stolen from a farm and used in a crime hundreds of kilometres away. It is something that is a significant concern to us," Detective Inspector Lance Vercoe of the Organised Crime Investigation Unit said.
The Queensland Police Service is urging the community to take the time to secure your firearm to help prevent crime. A three part video series will be launched today to remind the community of the importance of firearms security and how to prevent firearm related incidents.
"Not only are these firearms being used in serious crimes, but of concern to us is the increased use of firearms in domestic violence incidents. While we are proactively working to target and apprehend criminals and are working with our law enforcement partners to recover stolen firearms, we cannot achieve this in isolation. If you hold a firearm, then it is your responsibility to secure it and secure it well," Detective Inspector Vercoe said.
Now is also the time to think about updating your registration or firearm holdings details and ensuring your licence is current.
"It is important we have a good understanding of the firearms held across Queensland. This is not about restriction, but about ensuring a safer Queensland," he said.
For more information on firearms security, licensing or registration, visit the Queensland Police Service website.
