Cloncurry Police Station’s officer-in-charge Senior Sergeant Brad Rix said three of the rifles were semi-automatic. Another was a silencer. 

A small amount of drugs were found, he said. 

Eight people have been charged with more than 30 offences after police and drug detection dogs searched the properties.

The accused are scheduled to appear in the Cloncurry Magistrates Court on October 7. 

A 51-year-old Cloncurry man was among those charged. He is alleged to have trafficked methyl amphetamine. 

A 63-year-old Cloncurry man is charged with seven counts of unlawful possession of a firearm, three counts of possessing firearms with altered serial numbers, and insecurely storing ammunition. 

A 47-year-old Cloncurry man has been charged with supplying a dangerous drug, alleged to be methyl amphetamine.  

Senior Sergeant Rix said the search was part of continuing investigations into the supply of dangerous drugs within the Mount Isa Police District. 

“These investigations are on-going with a view to commencing prosecutions against other persons within the town who engage in the use and distribution of drugs and weapons,” Senior Sergeant Rix said. 

The Mount Isa Criminal investigation Branch, the Cloncurry Police Station officers and detection dogs from the Townsville Dog Squad searched the properties. 

Senior Sergeant Rix said that police will continue to investigate further information relating to drugs in the town. 

“Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Station, or alternatively Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000,” he said. 

“Anyone battling a dependency on illicit drugs are also urged to contact the police or local health provider for assistance and referral to the appropriate services.”