Police are investigating following an early morning burglary and assault incident in which a Coles Bay residence was set on fire.
Police and emergency services were called to the scene about 7am this morning following a report of a residence on fire.
Upon arrival, police located the owner of the residence who had been secured with cable ties inside the house and dragged outside by two offenders.
Initial investigations suggest that two men wearing face coverings and armed with a crowbar entered the residence about 5am and assaulted the householder causing non life threatening injuries.
The offenders demanded access to a firearms safe where they stole nine firearms registered to the house owner and a quantity of cash, before stealing his white 1998 Toyota Hilux single cab with red tarp.
Prior to leaving the address, the offenders set fire to the house – destroying it.
The male victim has been transported to the Royal Hobart Hospital by ambulance to receive treatment for his injuries.
"Although we are in the early stages of the investigation, police believe this incident is targeted," Detective Inspector David Gill said.
"We're calling for information, in particular anyone who has seen a white 1998 Toyota Hilux single cab with red tarp, 3 spotlights and a light bar to contact police immediately."
Anyone who saw any suspicious activity in the Coles Bay area around the time of the incident should contact police on 131444 and quote 810474.
