A third man has been arrested after investigators seized two 3D-printed submachine guns, nine stolen vehicles and explosives during a joint-agency operation targeting the manufacture and supply of prohibited firearms.
In May last year, detectives from the NSW Police Force and Australian Federal Police (AFP) – as part of the National Anti-Gangs Squad (NAGS) – commenced an investigation after receiving information relating to the manufacture and supply of prohibited firearms across the state.
During the investigation, NAGS investigators, together with the State Crime Command's Criminal Groups Squad, seized two 3D-printed submachine guns, three firearms and 28 sticks of explosives earlier this year.
Following extensive investigations, officers executed five search warrants at Georges Hall, Bankstown and Brighton Le-Sands yesterday (Wednesday 2 June 2021).
A 38-year-old man was arrested at Georges Hall and taken to Bankstown Police Station, where he was charged with 37 offences. He remains before the courts.
During the search of a Bankstown business and home in Brighton Le-Sands, officers seized ammunition, a firearm, handcuffs, drugs, $20,000 cash and nine allegedly stolen vehicles.
All items seized during the operation will undergo further examination.
Following further inquiries, detectives arrested a 21-year old man at a home in Woy Woy yesterday (Wednesday 2 June 2021). He taken to Gosford Police Station where he was later released pending further inquiries.
About 2.45pm yesterday (Wednesday 2 June 2021), investigators arrested a 21-year-old man at Emu Plains. He was taken to Penrith Police station where he was charged with five offences including:
* Possess, supply or make explosive for unlawful purpose,
* possess explosive in public place,
* knowingly deal with proceeds of crime,
* supply prohibited drug (x2)
The man was refused bail to appear at Penrith Local Court today (Thursday 3 June 2021).
Investigations are continuing.
The National Anti-Gangs Squad (NAGS) was established in 2014 as a multi-agency law enforcement taskforce targeting organised criminal syndicates, including those involving members of outlaw motorcycle gangs (OMCG).
Anyone with information that may assist NAGS investigators is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.
Information provided to investigators will be treated in the strictest of confidence.
