Community
5 December, 2025
VIPER taskforce visits south west
A SPECIALIST taskforce was deployed across western Victoria last week to target serious and organised crime figures wanted on warrants and with active firearm prohibition orders, including in Camperdown.
VIPER taskforce – supported by local detectives – travelled across the Camperdown, Warrnambool, Portland and Hamilton areas with outlaw motorcycle figures and networked offenders in their sights.
VIPER – a Melbourne-based taskforce – was established in July 2022 to target offenders involved in serious and organised crime at all levels.
During the operation, officers conducted nine firearm prohibition order checks, executed three search warrants and checked more than 100 vehicles.
Among those arrested through the taskforce was a 24-year-old Camperdown man, who was arrested after a Firearm Prohibition Order (FPO) located a machete and a quantity of methylamphetamine during a check-in.
The man is expected to be charged on summons with drug and weapons offences.
While no firearms were located, the operation was about sending a clear message to those with FPOs and a history of firearm offending they can be searched anytime by police.
Investigation and response manager Detective Senior Sergeant Chris Asenjo said the VIPER taskforce regularly deploys across Victoria to support local police units with investigation and enforcement actions, including FPOs.
“FPOs are about making it as difficult as possible for criminals to access illicit firearms and also create even greater consequences if they do access, use or store firearms,” he said.
“We want those who are subject to an FPO to feel very real pressure and scrutiny when it comes to illicit firearms.
“This is not a once-off operation and local police will continue to conduct FPO searches in the area.
“Expect us to knock on your door anytime.”
During the operation, police also impounded two vehicles for driving whilst suspended and disqualified and issued 37 penalty notices for traffic offences including speeding, using a mobile device and drug driving.
FPOs are a valuable tool for police and remain in effect for 10 years for adults and five years for children.
During this time, the individual is prohibited from acquiring, possessing, carrying or using any firearm related item such as ammunition.
They are also unable to enter a range of premises including firearms dealers and shooting ranges.
The charges relating to FPOs are significant – 10 years’ imprisonment for acquiring, possessing, carrying or using a firearm or firearm related item.
VIPER Taskforce Detective Inspector Anthony Gasparini said the operation was a timely reminder the taskforce can deploy anywhere at any time.
“There can be a perception that it is easier to hide in the country – that is simply not true,” he said.
“Tackling regional crime is a priority for Victoria Police and criminals need to understand there are no safe havens across our state.
“Just because you’re in regional Victoria doesn’t mean you aren’t in our sights.
“Our message is clear – if you’re involved in criminal activity, you will be caught by police and you will be held accountable.”
Anyone with information about illicit firearm or drug activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
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