Man charged with firearm offences
A 38-year-old Turner man will face court today (Thursday, 4 May 2023) on firearms charges following cross-border warrant activity that uncovered five 3D printed firearms.
About 8am yesterday (Wednesday, 3 May 2023), simultaneous search warrants were executed at residences in Turner, ACT and in Braidwood, NSW with the assistance of NSW Police.
At the Turner residence, police seized one prohibited pistol, five 3D printed firearms, numerous 3D printed firearm parts, a selection of ammunition, a firearm suppressor, a 3D printer and printing materials, SD cards and other electronic equipment, as well as a small amount of drugs suspected to be GHB and methylamphetamine.
The 38-year-old man was arrested at the scene, and has been charged with five counts of unauthorised manufacture of firearms, possessing a prohibited firearm and possession of ammunition.
Detective Acting Inspector Sam Norman from ACT Policing’s Proactive Intervention and Diversion Team said the arrest of this man followed on from the arrest of a man for similar offences in March 2023.
“These arrests stem from information provided by a member of the public and show how these type of tips can assist police as we tackle wider criminal enterprises,” Detective Acting Inspector Norman said.
“Any piece of information, no matter how big or small, can assist police, and I would encourage members of the community to report anything suspicious to police.
“I’d also like to thank NSW Police for their assistance with the warrants yesterday – this type of cross-border co-operation shows criminal groups that police will work collaboratively to pursue you wherever you may be.”
Police would like to remind the community that 3D printed firearms are considered illegal weapons. Anyone with information related to the manufacture, sale or possession of 3D printed firearms is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or via the Crime Stoppers ACT website. Information can be provided anonymously.
Media enquiries
Police media — (02) 5126 9070, act-police-media@afp.gov.au