Detectives from Latrobe Criminal Investigation Unit have seized deer heads, firearms and ammunition as part of an investigation into illegal spotlighting in Omeo.
Operation Valley culminated with the execution of three warrants and arrest of three men, on Wednesday 7 December, following reports a number of people were recklessly spotlighting and poaching deer in the vicinity of private property and homes in October.
With the assistance of Game Management Authority officers, detectives executed warrants in Maryvale Road and Angus Street Morwell and Henry street Moe.
Several items were seized including:
• nine deer heads
• six firearms, including bolt-action rifles and a shot gun
• ammunition
• spotlights
• thermal imaging equipment, and
• mobile phones.
Two Morwell men aged 20 and 24-years and a 30-year-old Moe man were arrested and interviewed in relation to conduct endangering life and a number of illegal spotlighting, criminal and wildlife offences.
The trio have been released and it is expected they will be charged on summons.
