Detectives from Strike Force Trident have so far arrested seven alleged offenders in relation to an unlawful entry in Moulden on 1 January 2016.

Detective Sergeant Mark Bland said a residence was unlawfully entered sometime between 4:00pm on 1 January and 1:30am on 2 January.

“Of concern to Police are four firearms that were stolen along with two vehicles.

“Two of the firearms have been recovered. However we are now calling for public assistance to locate the remaining two.

“They are an under over Franchi 12 gauge shotgun and a Sako 30.06 rifle,” Detective Sergeant Bland said.

Investigations to date have determined one of the vehicles, a Suzuki Swift, was sighted by Police near Katherine on 2 January.  The vehicle made a U-turn in an effort to evade Police but crashed into a culvert.  Two male offenders aged 13 and 14 were arrested a short time later.  No firearms were located in the extensively damaged vehicle.

The Suzuki had been driven from Pine Creek to the crash location with a flat rear tyre and not even the rims of the wheel remained.

Later the same day the second vehicle, a Toyota Hilux, was found bogged at Marlow Lagoon.  This vehicle was also extensively damaged.

Information gained led to Police to a residence in Woodroffe where two males aged 26 and 27 were arrested after two of the firearms, a CZ .22 rifle and a Marlin 20.30 rifle were allegedly located in the roof cavity.

On 4 January a fifth person, a 12-year-old male, was arrested in relation to the stolen motor vehicles.

Detective Sergeant Bland said a further two alleged offenders, females aged 14 and 15, were arrested in Jingili on 6 January.

"Investigations are continuing and anyone with information in regard to the missing firearms is urged to contact Police on 131 444 or call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.”

Charges so far:

12-year-old male

• Aggravated Unlawful Entry (Dwelling)
• Stealing
• 2 x Unlawful use of motor vehicle

13-year-old male:

• 2 x Aggravated Unlawful Use of Motor Vehicle
• Stealing
• Possess firearm whilst unlicenced
• Drive motor vehicle whilst unlicenced

14-year-old male:

• Aggravated use of a motor vehicle
• 14-year-old female
• Youth Diversion
• 15-year-old female
• Aggravated Unlawful Entry (Dwelling)
• Stealing
• Unlawful use of motor vehicle 

26-year-old male

• Receive stolen property
• Possess stolen property
• Possess firearm without a licence 

27-year-old male

• Receive stolen property
• Possess stolen property
• Possess firearm without a licence