A routine traffic stop in Sandy Bay has landed a Glenorchy man in court after police allegedly discovered a homemade handgun hidden in his vehicle.
The 34-year-old is due to face Hobart Magistrates Court today, following his arrest during what began as a standard patrol intercept around midday on Wednesday.
Police allege the improvised firearm was “concealed inside the vehicle”.
The man has since been charged with unlicensed firearm possession, drug offences and breaching both bail conditions and a restraint order.
The find has prompted fresh warnings about the dangers of makeshift weapons in the community.
First Class Constable Hannah MacLeod said homemade firearms carried a wide range of risks.
“Firearms, particularly homemade ones, are unpredictable and extremely dangerous,” she said.
“They pose a significant threat not only to the public but also to those who handle them.”
