Two men have been arrested after they allegedly fired gunshots at power transformers in Victoria's east, cutting power and internet connections.
The men, both aged 24 from Bairnsdale and Tinamba, are accused of shooting at least eight power transformers across East Gippsland between September and October 2021.
The duo is allegedly responsible for $100,000 worth of damage to the critical infrastructure in the areas of Fernbank, Lindenow South and Munro.
The damage also caused power and internet disruptions, causing undue community distress, Victoria Police said.
After an extensive investigation and raids on homes at Bairnsdale and Tinamba, officers on Thursday announced they arrested the pair, who were facing a combined 62 charges.
They were charged with offences including using a firearm in a public place, using a firearm to damage property, using a firearm in a dangerous manner and damaging property.
The pair were granted bail to front Bairnsdale Magistrates Court on August 2.
"While some may think this is a victimless crime, significant damage to critical infrastructure can cause distress and disruption to the community through the loss of internet and power services," Detective Senior Constable Brendan Keane said.
"Police will continue to use all available methods at our disposal to reduce the impact illicit firearms have on the community, remove these weapons from the hands of criminals and place offenders before the courts."
Police seized multiple guns, ammunition, a silencer and other weapons during the raids.
