Western Australian police have seized more than a dozen firearms from a remote property as a major manhunt continues for a 58-year-old man wanted over a shooting incident treated as a family domestic violence matter.
Major Police Operation in the Mid West
The heavy police response was triggered on Wednesday afternoon, around 5:30pm, when officers were called to a property on Urawa Road near Mullewa, located north of Perth in the state's Mid West region. Upon arrival, they discovered a woman with a gunshot wound to her hand.
The injured woman, who has spoken with detectives, was transported to Royal Perth Hospital where she remains in a stable condition. Superintendent Neil Vanderplank described her as "very very sore" and undergoing multiple surgeries, with her recovery expected to be "a bit tender for a while."
Arsenal Uncovered, Fugitive at Large
During their investigation, police seized a total of 16 firearms from the large outback property. While acknowledging that farmers often have access to multiple firearms, Superintendent Vanderplank stated the specific number and ownership would form a crucial part of the ongoing investigation.
The search is focused on finding 58-year-old Kenneth John Giles, who is believed to have been staying at the property. Police confirmed Giles is not a licensed firearms holder and believe he may be armed. There have been no confirmed sightings of him since he drove away from the property on Wednesday afternoon.
"We're always closer than where we started," Superintendent Vanderplank said on Friday, expressing confidence that Giles remains in the local area. He suggested the fugitive, described as a skilled bushman, was likely using back tracks to avoid main roads and "laying quite low."
Community Alert and Plea for Surrender
Authorities revealed that two small children, another man, and an elderly woman were also present at the property at the time of the shooting, which investigators believe may have involved a long-range rifle.
The police response has been significant, with close to 100 calls from the public providing potential information. Resources are being strategically deployed based on these tips.
Superintendent Vanderplank issued a direct plea for Giles to surrender: "We urge him to hand himself in so we can end this matter as safely as we can for the community and for himself." He emphasised the police's resolve, stating, "We'll continue to search for Mr Giles until it is resolved." The community is urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings or information immediately to police.
