One man has been charged and a significant arsenal of weapons seized following an investigation into the alleged importation of items consistent with firearm manufacturing.
With assistance from the Australian Border Force (ABF), detectives from the Illicit Firearms Squad executed a warrant at a residential address in Croydon North on 22 December.
A number of weapons including two homemade firearms, swords, tasers, knuckle dusters, knives, ammunition and other firearm-related items were seized.
“This is a significant result for our investigators and demonstrates both our and the ABF’s commitment to detecting and intercepting illicit firearms and parts,” Illicit Firearms Squad Detective Inspector Mick Daly said.
“There is no doubt these weapons could have posed a significant risk to the community if they were not detected by our members as part of this investigation.”
Police also located an alleged clandestine laboratory at the address and seized a range of explosive chemicals with the assistance of the Clandestine Laboratory Squad.
A 20-year-old Croydon North man was charged with manufacture category a firearm, possess traffickable quantity firearms, possess prohibited weapons and possess cannabis.
He was bailed to appear at Ringwood Magistrates’ Court on 5 June 2023.
“We work closely with Victoria Police and our other partner agencies to disrupt criminals seeking to obtain illegal firearms,” ABF Regional Investigations Superintendent Uriah Turner said.
“This arrest is another great result and follows on from the success of Operation Athena earlier this year, which saw multiple law enforcement agencies carry out a national week of action targeting illegal firearms.
“The ABF is determined to stop illicit firearms ending up on Australian streets and we will continue to target people who attempt to import prohibited goods illegally across the border.”
The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with information about illicit firearms is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or to submit a confidential crime report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
