Tasmania Police has charged a 16 year old youth in relation to two serious assaults and the possession of a homemade firearm in Claremont early this morning.
Two adult men remain in police custody, with further charges expected to be laid.
Police allege around 12:30am, an 18 year old South Hobart man was assaulted on Claremont Link Road by three offenders known to him. As he fled, his phone was stolen.
About 1:20am, an 18 year old Chigwell man intervened after hearing the disturbance and was also assaulted. The offenders fled the scene, and the victim contacted police.
Glenorchy Uniform officers attended a search warrant was executed at a Claremont address, resulting in the seizure of mobile phones containing footage of both assaults, along with property belonging to the first victim.
Further examination revealed footage of a youth discharging a homemade firearm.
All three offenders were arrested.
A second search warrant at a further Claremont residence resulted in the seizure of the firearm, several shotgun cartridges, and a .22 calibre round.
A 16 year old Claremont youth has been charged with:
• Common Assault
• Possess a prohibited firearm
• Fail to ensure safekeeping of firearm and ammunition (two counts)
• Possess ammunition without a licence
• Recklessly discharge a firearm
• Deal in firearms without a dealer licence.
The youth has been detained to appear in the Youth Justice Court tomorrow.
Two adult men remain in custody, and further charges are expected to be laid as investigations continue.
Anyone with information should contact Glenorchy Police on 131444 or report to Crime Stoppers on 1800333000 or crimestopperstas.com.au. You can remain anonymous.
