20 people, one as young as 14, have been arrested after a major police operation across Greater Geelong.
Last week, detectives from Geelong Crime Investigation Unit alongside the VIPER Taskforce visited more than 40 homes, conducting dozens of search warrants.
The sting targeted people banned from owning firearms, with 34 Firearm Prohibition Order (FPO) searches carried out in several Geelong suburbs.
During the operation police say they seized weapons, drugs and several items allegedly stolen from burglaries.
Among the 20 people arrested was 14-year-old boy from Armstrong Creek, who has been charged with a range of offences, after a search at the teen’s home allegedly located prohibited weapons and illicit drugs.
Properties in the likes of Belmont, Hamlyn Heights, North Geelong and Batesford were also searched under the FPO during the operation between Monday and Thursday last week.
“These operations aim to protect the community and reduce firearm related crime,” Detective Senior Sergeant Mark Guthrie said.
“We have the ability to call on specialised resources including the VIPER Taskforce, to assist us in combatting criminal networks and remove illicit firearms from the wrong hands,” he said.
“Carrying firearms illegally is a dangerous game with severe consequences – and we will continue to run proactive operations across Greater Geelong to keep the community safe.”
Charges relating to breaching an FPO can bring jail time of up to 10 years if found guilty.
