HUNTERS were caught illegally spotlighting deer and native wildlife in Northeast Victoria over the weekend.

The Game Management Authority officers have interviewed three different groups of shooters who have had their firearms seized and will be further investigated for allegedly engaging in illegal spotlighting.

The officers are also investigating the men for alleged firearms offences as well as driving and shooting protected wildlife.

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GMA compliance and intelligence director Paul Stevens said his officers teamed up with Victoria Police from Bright, Whitfield and Wangaratta to patrol a range of sites across the Northeast, in response to community complaints of illegal night-time hunting.

The team covered areas around to Buckland and the Buffalo Valley, Rose River, Edi Upper, Myrrhee, Whitfield and Tolmie.

“During the early hours of the morning, GMA Officers interviewed a total of eight men in relation to offences including possessing a firearm and spotlight in deer habitat, hunting game at night and shooting protected wildlife,” Mr Stevens said.

“A total of five firearms, nearly 500 live rounds of ammunition, ten high powered torches and spotlights, one thermal imaging unit and a number of dead protected animal species, including possums and birds, were seized by GMA officers and Police.”

One group of spotlighters were in possession of a sambar deer.

A number of road blocks were also conducted.

Police tested three drivers positive for illegal drugs in their system, who will be facing large fines and suspension of their driver's licences.

Mr Stevens said the GMA, Victoria Police and partner agencies will continue to work together to target illegal spotlighting in Victoria.

“Unless you are authorised to do so, deer must not be hunted at night,” Mr Stevens said.

“It is dangerous and can put people and wildlife at risk.

“Native wildlife must not be hunted unless a permit has been attained.

“There are heavy penalties for those who choose to illegally do so.

“Illegal spotlighting and irresponsible behaviour will not be tolerated.

“People need to make sure that they are familiar with the laws and are not hunting illegally.

“If you are travelling with a firearm in a vehicle between 30 minutes after sunset until 30 minutes before sunrise in recognised deer habitat, you must ensure the firearm and ammunition are stored securely and not readily accessible.”

Hunters and the public are urged to report any illegal hunting to the GMA through its website www.gma.vic.gov.au or the Customer Service Centre on 136 186 or by contacting Victoria Police.

For more information on game hunting in Victoria, visit www.gma.vic.gov.au