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Raptor Squad officers have charged a man with alleged firearm and exotic reptile offences in Sydney's west.
In March 2026, State Crime Command's Raptor Squad commenced an investigation into the alleged criminal activities of a 24-year-old Colyton man, who has alleged links to both high-profile Organised Criminal Networks and Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs (OMCGs).
About 2.30pm yesterday (Monday 23 March 2026), officers executed a search warrant at an address in Colyton.
A 24-year-old man allegedly attempted to flee the scene; however, was arrested after a short foot pursuit.
With the assistance from the Commonwealth Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, police located and seized 20 snakes of various species, four tortoises, 12 turtles, and a number of other deceased animals including a decapitated possum.
Police also located three pistols, a rifle, a shortened double barrel shotgun, and ammunition.
The man was taken to hospital for treatment of injuries to his hand sustained when he attempted to flee police.
He was charged with 15 firearm and ammunition offences, and 12 counts of possess non-native CITES/regulated specimen.
He was refused bail to appear in Penrith Local Court today (Tuesday 24 March 2026).
Commander of Raptor Squad, Detective Superintendent Andrew Koutsoufis, explained how organised criminals and illegal reptile ownership often goes hand-in-hand.
"Unfortunately, it's not unusual for individuals involved in organised criminal activity to illegally keep exotic reptiles. For many of these offenders, it's about projecting a certain image – living outside the law, pushing boundaries, and surrounding themselves with things they believe reinforce that identity," Det Supt Koutsoufis said.
"Our officers are trained and ready for anything. Whether it's firearms, dangerous offenders, or illegally kept wildlife, Raptor Squad deals with a wide spectrum of criminal behaviour. This operation is another example of our capability to respond quickly and effectively, no matter what we encounter.
"We work closely with the Commonwealth Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water to ensure the best possible outcome for the animals involved. Their expertise is essential in safely handling and assessing exotic species, and together we make sure these creatures are removed from harm and from illegal trade."
A Commonwealth DCCEEW spokesperson said, "the importation and possession of exotic wildlife is a serious offence under Australia's national environment law and puts our native species and unique natural environment at risk.
"We won't rest until the criminal syndicates who exploit the cruel illegal wildlife trade for their own financial gain are dismantled.
"On this occasion, investigators assisted by an expert wildlife handler assessed and identified 44 exotics specimens within the property.
"Individuals found to have imported CITES listed and or regulated live specimens face a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment, a fine of $330,000 or both.
"Possession of illegally imported specimens contrary to section 303GN of the EPBC Act is a serious offence, with penalties of up to 5 years imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $330,000.
"We work closely with NSW Police and other law enforcement partners to detect, disrupt and deter those involved in the illicit wildlife trade.
"The Commonwealth, through DCCEEW have stepped up our enforcement efforts, but we continue to rely on the public's help. If you suspect illegal activity, you can report illegal wildlife activities on the DCCEEW website or call 1800 110 395."
Anyone with information that may assist investigations into organised criminal activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is managed on a confidential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
