A second man has been charged in relation to the theft of firearms in Wagga.
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In June 2018, officers from Riverina Police District formed Strike Force Panipat to investigate three break-and-enters at homes in Moorong, Mount Austin and Ashmont, and an attempt to steal a vehicle in Ashmont.
It will be alleged six firearms were stolen.
As part of the investigation, police executed a search warrant at a unit in Travers Street, Wagga, about 1pm on July 19.
Officers seized several items, including a firearm and ammunition.
A 25-year-old man was arrested near the property and charged with possession of an unauthorised firearm, not keep firearm safely, possess ammunition without holding licence or permit, contravene a prohibition or restriction in a domestic AVO, and resist or hinder police officer in the execution of duty.
He remains before the courts.
Following further inquiries, police executed a search warrant at a property on Mumford Street, Ashmont, on Tuesday.
Officers seized several items, including two trail bikes, bike parts, and several car keys.
A 19-year-old man was arrested near the home following a short foot pursuit and taken to Wagga police station, police said.
He was charged with two counts of break, enter and steal, six counts of stealing a firearm, take and drive conveyance without consent of owner, enter land with intent to commit indictable offence, aggravated break and enter to commit serious indictable offence, and having goods suspected of being stolen on premises.
He was refused bail to appear at Wagga Local Court on Wednesday.
Police have urged all owners to ensure their firearms are secured:
- Store your firearm, bolt and ammunition securely and separately;
- Ensure any tools which could be used to break into firearms safes are not stored nearby;
- Ensure any keys or combinations for gun storage safes are kept secure and separate from the safes; and,
- Be cautious about who has knowledge of your firearms licence status and where your firearms are stored.