Two men charged with firearms offences
Two men have been charged with firearms offences following search warrant activity at two business premises in Mitchell yesterday.
In September (2024) Australian Border Force officials intercepted items believed to be used in the manufacture of firearms which were destined for addresses in the ACT. Information gathered as part of the interception was referred to ACT Policing and an investigation was commenced by Gungahlin general duties officers.
Yesterday morning (Friday, 27 September 2024) police executed search warrants at two business premises in Mitchell. During the searches police located multiple items used to create firearms including firearm bolts, barrels, metal cutout pieces in the shape of firearms, a barrel ‘reaming’ tool and a gel blaster pistol.
A 47-year-old Mitchell man (who had previously had his firearms confiscated and his firearms licence cancelled due to a family violence assault conviction) was subsequently charged with three counts of unauthorised possession of 3-9 firearms and one count of unauthorised manufacture of firearms.
A 43-year-old Macgregor man (who had previously had his firearms licence cancelled due to firearms offences) was charged with the unauthorised manufacture of firearms.
Both men are scheduled to appear in the ACT Magistrates Court today (Saturday, 28 September 2024).
Enquiries in relation to this matter are continuing and further charges may be laid.
Anyone with any information about the illegal manufacture of 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