Tasmania Police are investigating a violent burglary and assault in Coles Bay this morning where a house was destroyed by fire.
Police and emergency services were called to a residence on fire at about 7am on Saturday, 11 July, according to a statement from Tasmania Police.
Upon arrival, Tasmania Police said they located the owner of the home, who had allegedly been secured with cable ties by two offenders.
Police allege that two men wearing face coverings and armed with a crowbar entered the residence at about 5am. They allege the offenders assaulted the homeowner, causing non-life-threatening injuries.
According to the police statement, the offenders demanded access to a firearms safe and stole nine registered firearms and a quantity of cash. Before leaving, the offenders allegedly set fire to the house, which was destroyed in the blaze.
The homeowner was transported by ambulance to the Royal Hobart Hospital for treatment of his injuries, Tasmania Police said.
Police also allege the offenders stole the victim’s vehicle, a white 1998 Toyota Hilux single cab with a distinctive red tarp, three spotlights, and a light bar.
Detective Inspector David Gill from Tasmania Police said that while the investigation is in its early stages, police believe the incident was targeted.
“We’re calling for information, in particular anyone who has seen a white 1998 Toyota Hilux single cab with red tarp, 3 spotlights and a light bar to contact police immediately,” Detective Inspector Gill said in the statement.
Tasmania Police have asked anyone who saw suspicious activity in the Coles Bay area around the time of the incident to contact them on 131 444 and quote reference number 810474.