A man has been arrested as part of a joint-agency investigation into the alleged importation of illegal firearm parts and drug manufacturing equipment in NSW’s Central Tablelands.
Last month, the New South Wales Police Force (NSWPF), Australian Border Force (ABF) and United States Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) commenced an investigation after receiving information in relation to the alleged importation of firearm parts and drug manufacturing equipment into Australia from the US, Hong Kong, China, Germany and Japan.
Following extensive investigations, NSWPF officers from Western Region Enforcement Squad and investigators from ABF and HSI executed a NSW search warrant and a customs search and seizure warrant at a home at South Bathurst just after 6am today (Wednesday 23 September 2020).
The operation is also being assisted Chifley Police District, the Dog Unit, and Western Region Operations Support Group.
After investigators uncovered a suspicious substance inside the home, assistance was requested from Fire and Rescue NSW’s HAZMAT to render the area safe.
Specialist officers from the Rescue and Bomb Disposal Unit and the Drug and Firearms Squad’s Chemical Operations Unit are in attendance.
The 36-year-old male resident was served with Firearms and Weapons Prohibition Orders before being arrested and taken to Bathurst Police Station, where he is expected to be charged.
The operation is ongoing and further information will be provided when it becomes available.
Information about the importation of firearms, illicit drugs or other prohibited items can be reported to BorderWatch: https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/about-us/what-we-do/borderwatch/reporting.
Anyone with information about the importation and/or supply of firearms or illicit drugs is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.
