Eight people have been charged after rifles, shotguns and ammunition were stolen from a Tasmanian home, with police warning illegal weapons may still be on the streets.
The arrests followed a burglary at Tea Tree, north of Hobart, that was reported to police on Wednesday morning.
Within hours, officers carried out coordinated raids across greater Hobart.
Three people allegedly linked directly to the break-in were taken into custody.
A 23-year-old Gagebrook man faces six charges, including possessing a “slam gun” – an illegal homemade firearm.
A 20-year-old Austins Ferry man was charged with recklessly discharging a firearm, among other offences, while a 17-year-old boy from Gagebrook was granted bail.
Five more people were arrested after further investigations, including two Bridgewater men who are also facing drug trafficking charges.
The operation involved detectives from several Criminal Investigation Branches, Operation Saturate officers, uniformed police and specialist units.
Properties at Granton, Glenorchy, Gagebrook and Bridgewater were searched.
“Police remain committed to removing illegal firearms from the community and are calling for information on the burglary,” a spokesperson said.
“If anyone has information regarding the incident or is approached by someone attempting to sell or dispose of firearms, please contact police on 131 444.”
