A man has been charged after investigators seized almost 40 firearms and more than 250 kilograms of explosive material during a police operation targeting the importation and manufacture of prohibited firearms.
Earlier this month, detectives from the State Crime Command's Drug and Firearms Squad commenced an investigation after receiving information relating to the manufacture and importation of prohibited firearms into New South Wales.
During the investigation, detectives uncovered a property north-west of Sydney which was allegedly being used to store significant amounts of illicit explosive material and numerous prohibited weapons.
Following extensive inquiries, officers executed a crime scene warrant at a Kurrajong address just after 11am yesterday (Wednesday 24 November 2021).
Investigators were assisted throughout the operation by specialist police attached to the Rescue and Bomb Disposal Unit, Chemical Operations Team, North West Metropolitan Region Operations Support Group, Forensic Evidence and Technical Services Command, as well as Fire & Rescue NSW HAZMAT and NSW Ambulance.
During a subsequent search of the property, police located and seized a significant amount of prohibited weapons, including almost 40 firearms, seven improvised explosive devices (IEDs), seven pipe bombs, ammunition, a ballistic vest, as well as 250kg of Ammonium nitrate and various other chemicals.
Additionally, police located and seized;
- firearm silencers (x6)
- electronic stun devices (x5)
- extendable batons (x3)
- OC spray (x3)
- knives (x77)
A crime scene remains in place while investigators attached to the Drug and Firearms Squad's Chemical Operations Team continue to process the site over the coming days.
All items seized during the operation will undergo further forensic examination.
A 42-year-old man was arrested and taken to Windsor Police Station where he was charged with six offences, including possess more than three unregistered firearms including a prohibited pistol, manufacturing firearms without licence or permit, three counts of possess or use a prohibited weapon without permit, and custody of knife in public place - first offence.
He was refused bail to appear at Penrith Local Court today (Thursday 25 November 2021).
Anyone with information relating to the illegal manufacture or importation of firearms is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
