Sunshine Coast man charged after weapons import attempt

A Sunshine Coast man is facing state and federal charges relating to weapons importation and drug possession, following his arrest in joint warrant activity between the Queensland Police Service (QPS) and the Australian Border Force (ABF).

The investigation began in May this year, when ABF officers working in international mail processing in Sydney and Brisbane intercepted a series of packages addressed to the man. The packages contained firearm suppressors and an automatic knife.

On 9 July, officers attended a residential property in Pelican Waters on the Sunshine Coast where QPS arrested the man and ABF seized 31 firearm suppressors and one mobile phone.

ABF Acting Commander Investigations, Clint Sims, said the case was a strong reminder of the ABF’s capacity to disrupt and deter illicit firearms and parts from entering the country.

“A case like this sends a strong message that we, working closely with relevant law enforcement authorities like the QPS, remain committed to enforcing our tough firearm importation laws,” Acting Commander Sims said.

The man has been charged under the Customs Act with one count of s233(1)(b) – import prohibited goods (automatic knife) and three counts of s233BAB(5) – import tier 2 goods (firearm suppressors).

He was also charged under the Police Powers and Responsibility Act with one count each of possessing a dangerous drug, drug utensils and ammunition.

He was remanded in custody and will appear at Maroochydore Magistrates Court on 13 July.

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