Detectives from the Illicit Firearms Squad have today charged a man as part of an investigation into the manufacturing and trafficking of firearms.
A 55-year-old Watsonia was charged with non-prohibited person possess a handgun without a licence, possess unregistered handgun, manufacture general category handgun without a dealers’ licence, possess firearm parts for manufacture, possess instructions for manufacture of a firearm and possess ammunition without a licence.
He has been summonsed to appear at Heidelberg Magistrates’ Court on 8 December.
A search warrant was executed at a Watsonia address on 30 July where detectives seized 27 items, including:
- A privately made semi-automatic pistol, similar to a Ruger MkIV Target;
- Privately made firearm parts for a semi-automatic pistol, similar to a Ruger MkIV Target;
- A quantity of live 22lr cartridge ammunition;
- Steel pipe, various springs and fixings;
- Two 3D printers; and
- Printed out firearm manufacture schematics/blueprints.
The investigation began following information received from Australian Border Force, which plays a key role in the detection of offences and assists in the disruption of illicit firearm activity.
Anyone with information on illicit firearm activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
