Eight firearms seized in Geelong police crackdown

Victoria Police have seized eight firearms during a targeted operation across Geelong, as part of a renewed crackdown on illicit weapons in the region.

Local detectives joined forces with the VIPER Taskforce during Operation Potassium, carried out between 13 and 16 April, focusing on individuals subject to firearm prohibition orders.

Across the four-day operation, officers conducted 16 compliance checks and executed a search warrant, uncovering firearms, drugs and prohibited weapons.

In Little River, police located four firearms, an imitation firearm, ammunition, firearm parts and methylamphetamine during a compliance check. A 47-year-old man was arrested at the scene.

He was charged with multiple offences, including possessing a traffickable quantity of unregistered firearms and breaching a firearm prohibition order. He was remanded to appear before Geelong Magistrates’ Court on 29 April.

A separate search in Whittington uncovered an imitation firearm, drugs and a range of prohibited weapons. A 56-year-old man was arrested and bailed to face court on 12 June.

Officers also seized two firearms during a compliance check in St Albans Park, with a 32-year-old man charged over the discovery.

Another man, aged 43, is expected to be charged for failing to meet his legal obligations under a firearm prohibition order.

Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Jaime Gillard said the operation sent a clear message to offenders.

“These operations keep the heat on those prohibited from possessing a firearm due to their criminal history and criminal associations, with eight firearms successfully removed from the wrong hands.”

“Our message to those with FPOs is clear – you can be searched anytime by police.”

VIPER Taskforce Detective Acting Inspector Chris Ellway said regional areas were not beyond reach.

“This operation is a timely reminder that VIPER can and will deploy anywhere in the state to support police in the regions.”

“There can be a perception that it is easier to hide in the country, that is simply not true.”

Police continue to urge anyone with information about illicit firearm activity to contact Crime Stoppers.