Tip-off helps cops find loaded gun

Finding a man in possession of an illegal firearm on Great Southern Highway has prompted police to urge community members to contact them if they see suspicious behaviour, no matter how minor it may seem.

On Saturday November 16, Narrogin Police located a 28-year-old male walking along the Great Southern Highway who was later found to be carrying an illegal firearm.

Sgt Heidi Melia said a concerned member of the public called the station about the man.

“She was concerned about bothering us and that it was nothing but we treated it as a welfare check and went to see what the go was — he wasn’t in a good way,” she said.

Police offered the man a lift to the next town and as part of police protocol, anyone who gets inside a police vehicle must be searched for security risk items.

“We located an illegal, loaded revolver,” Sgt Melia said.

“It was actually a modified replica so it could be used as a functioning firearm. He also had ammunition and allegedly stolen property on him.”

The man was wanted in Perth over burglary offences.

Sgt Melia said it was a good result for the community.

“We’re grateful the community member got in touch and even though they thought it was an insignificant thing, it goes to show that it is worthwhile contacting the police. If people want to remain anonymous they can call Crime Stoppers or report crimes through the Eyes on the Street app.”

The man was arrested and charged for being an unlicensed firearm holder.

He was denied bail and was sent to Perth.

Earlier this month two homemade handguns were seized earlier this month during a vehicle check.

Sgt Melia said people in the town did not need to be concerned but should be aware that people passing through Narrogin have been found with firearms.

“People that are caught up in drugs and illegal activities often try to get hold of firearms, so it’s concerning but we’re doing everything we can to get these guns off the streets,” she said.

“We’re being thorough and the extra help from the community assists even more.”