By LACHLAN MOORHEAD
POLICE are still searching for eight guns which were alleged stolen from a Berwick house last month.
It is believed a burglar broke into the garage of the Brent Close home overnight on Friday 21 November.
They originally removed 10 guns from a large safe, before taking a smaller safe containing another firearm.
But the smaller safe, along with two firearms, was recovered nearby, while eight guns remain missing.
Police have provided a photo of the missing guns.
Investigators are keen to hear from anyone who may have seen any suspicious activity in the area at the time of the burglary, or who may have any knowledge of the whereabouts of the firearms.
Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or log into www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
The theft comes as police have warned firearm owners this week to avoid publicising their ownership, after a spate of social media activity involving firearm ‘selfies’.
Senior Sergeant Andrew Armstrong said people were recklessly advertising their firearm ownership without considering the consequences.
“This behaviour is concerning. Some criminals trawl social media networks looking for easy targets and items of interest – including ammunition and other weaponry,” Sen Sgt Armstrong from Victoria Police Licensing and Regulation Division said.
“It’s easy enough to gather personal information through public profiles or unsecure accounts.
“Licence holders need to be responsible.
“Any public display of firearm ownership including stickers on vehicles or house windows can encourage unwanted attention from thieves.”
Sen Sgt Armstrong said police will continue to conduct impromptu inspections over the coming months.
“Some licence holders are becoming too complacent,” he said.
“With the responsibility of owning a firearm comes the responsibility of storing one.
“If your firearms can be easily accessed you need to improve your security.”
The Firearms Act 1996 states that devices used to store these items must be constructed of hard wood or steel that is not easily penetrable and secured with a sturdy lock.
Sen Sgt Armstrong said recent targeted operations had led to fines being issued, licences cancelled and weapons seized. For more information about the safe storage of firearms, visit www.police.vic.gov.au/firearms.
