Officers from the Australian Border Force (ABF), with support from Northern Territory Police (NT Police), executed a warrant on a property south of Darwin last week in relation to the alleged importation of firearm accessories.
The investigation began on 11 March when ABF officers in Sydney intercepted an air cargo package containing four firearm suppressors. The package was addressed to a residential property in Humpty Doo, NT.
On 31 March, ABF investigators executed the warrant, and a full search of the property was conducted by the ABF and NT Police. A person of interest was spoken to at the property.
The ABF seized a total of five imported firearm suppressors, two homemade firearm suppressors and other evidentiary material.
Northern Territory Police Firearms Unit attended and suspended the occupant's firearm licence, seizing 10 additional firearms and associated ammunition. A notice to appear at Darwin Local Court has been issued for 2 May 2023 relating to firearms non-compliance.
ABF Acting Chief Superintendent Tracie Griffin said ABF officers were highly skilled when it came to targeting suspect consignments.
"Once these consignments are detected, the ABF then works seamlessly with partner agencies to disrupt criminals who try to get their hands on illegal weapons that could cause immense harm to the Australian community," Acting Chief Superintendent Griffin said.
"Our message to criminals is loud and clear - if you attempt to illegally import these types of items, we will detect, we will investigate and we will work with our partners to ensure you face the full consequences of your actions."
Northern Territory Police Commander Matthew Hollamby said "Irresponsible and unlawful possession of firearms, and firearm accessories, should be a matter for community concern."
"There is little room for discretion when dealing with firearms offences and offenders will be prosecuted."
