Gun threat linked to drug trade

Police have warned of a ‘‘threat’’ to the community after search warrants turned up drugs and illegal firearms at three Manjimup residence over the weekend.

A sawn off .22 rifle and a lever action .357 magnum rifle believed to be stolen were found along with a quantity of cannabis and amphetamines and drug-making equipment.

Acting Sgt Troy Andrich said one man was charged at each home where the warrants were carried out, and investigations are continuing.

‘‘I see it as a serious threat to Manjimup that there are unlicensed firearms in the community in the hands of druggies,’’ Sgt Andrich said.

‘‘We were able to successfully carry out each of the warrants and three men were charged with drug related offences throughout the process.

‘‘However, our inquiries are continuing into those and further warrants yet to be carried out.

‘‘It is unfortunate that this behaviour and these type of people do exist in our region but we’re we’re working toward thinning it out, across town and through our work wi th ne ighbour ing town’ s police.’’

Sgt Andrich said court summons had been distributed to the men charged at the weekend and police are working on identifying the rightful owner of the rifles.

‘‘The serial number on the weapons have been filed down and are illegible, but there are other ways of determining the owner’s ID,’’ Sgt Andrich said.

‘‘The community needs to know that we are actively working on information regarding drug activity. Anyone with any further information should contact the police immediately.’’

Anyone with information regarding suspicious behaviour or illegal drug activity should contact Crime Stoppers on1800 333 000.