In one of the most serious matters, a Myrtleford man was caught with a .22 rifle with a silencer.

Sen-Sgt Doug Incoll said he was surprised by the number of people caught breaking the law, with 18 people facing charges for more than 20 offences.

Seven firearms were seized.

“Not all the people hunting were committing offences, but it was quite surprising how many people were caught doing the wrong thing,” he said.

“It’s only a small rogue element that is doing the wrong thing, but it tarnishes everyone with the same brush.

“It doesn’t do their cause much good by having this rogue element.

“But police were surprised the amount of offending going on on the day and it demonstrated there is a marked problem.”

Operation Elmer started on Saturday and will continue until December.

Police and staff from Parks Victoria and the Department of Environment and Primary Industries targeted the Buckland Valley, Buffalo River, Mount Cobbler and Rose River.

More than 50 people and 37 vehicles were checked by the agencies.

“There are quite severe penalties for the firearm offences,” Sen-Sgt Incoll said.

“With any firearms offences, police make applications to have the guns seized and destroyed.

“It’s part education, part law enforcement.

“Investigations continue regarding further charges.”

Police did not find any illegal firearms during Saturday’s operation.

The operation will be conducted randomly until the end of the year.

Police have had issues with illegal hunting and hunting with dogs.