Firearms charges

A Neerim South man has been charged with firearms offences after detectives conducted a search warrant while investigating an incident involving arrows being fired at a Warragul house last month.
Baw Baw CIU detectives executed the search warrant at a remote property near Neerim South on Friday, November 25.
Detectives said the search warrant was part of an investigation into an incident that occurred in Jamieson St, Warragul on November 2. The incident involved three arrows being fired at the house.
Detective sergeant Gordon Hynd said two of the arrows penetrated windows putting the occupants, including children at risk. Detectives believe the incident was part of a dispute between people know to police.
During the search of the Neerim South, police located a toy gel blaster assault rifle which det sgt Hynd said was classed as an imitation firearm.
A 28 year-old man was charged with firearms offences including a prohibited person possessing an imitation firearm and failing to store cartridge ammunition as well as driving whilst disqualified, and driving an unregistered vehicle.
He was bailed to appear at Latrobe Valley Magistrates' Court on February 22.
Det sgt Hynd said gel blasters closely resembled a firearm and at only a short distance an experienced firearm enthusiast would struggle to differentiate between the toy and a real gun which was why they are illegal in Victoria.
He said community members who have purchased these toys from interstate or on-line should immediately destroy them or risk being prosecuted.