3 weeks ago
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February 4, 2026 — 5:00pm
A teenager who allegedly sent parts of Pinjarra into lockdown following reports he was walking around town with a rifle has told police it was a fake gun.
Zachariah Ugle, 18, was refused bail in Perth Magistrates Court on Wednesday after a magistrate decided it was unlikely he would comply with any bail conditions, given his lengthy rap sheet.
The Lakelands man was arrested on January 13 after seven hours on the run evading significant police resources, including the tactical response group, which had flooded the town following reports of a man being on the loose with a gun.
In court on Wednesday, the police prosecutor alleged they had a strong case against the teen, including images and video evidence of Ugle carrying a rifle near an oval, and breaking into a home while holding the rifle, however he was not in possession of the weapon when he was arrested.
He claimed it was a toy gun, but was unable to tell police where it was.
Investigators are yet to confirm whether the gun was real, but the prosecutor alleged the fear that Ugle caused in the community was real.
Ugle is charged with being armed in a way that may cause fear, aggravated burglary and stealing.
His bail was refused due to the serious nature of the allegations, and his prior history of offending.
At the time of the alleged incident, Ugle was already out on bail after allegedly assaulting his girlfriend in September because he thought she was cheating on him.
He also has a history of breaching bail and missing court appearances.
“All good, Your Honour,” Ugle replied after learning his bail had been refused.
He is due back in court next month.
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