Two alleged members of rival organised criminal networks have been arrested and two handguns seized as part of ongoing proactive operations to disrupt criminal syndicates.
Detectives from State Crime Command's Criminal Groups and Raptor Squads executed a search warrant at a home at Guildford and conducted a Firearm Prohibition Order (FPO) search at a home at Auburn from 8am today (Friday 10 September 2021).
When police arrived at the Auburn address, the 18-year-old male resident attempted to flee on foot, with officers giving chase. The man was stopped and arrested a short distance away.
During a subsequent search of the home and a vehicle located outside the property, police located and seized a handgun.
During the search of the Guildford property, police located and seized a handgun before arresting a 23-year-old man.
The firearms will undergo forensic and ballistic examination.
Both men were taken to local police stations, where its expected they will be charged.
Police will allege in court both men are members of rival organised crime networks.
Criminal Groups Squad Commander, Detective Superintendent Grant Taylor, said the arrests were significant in stopping dangerous gang activity.
"Police will allege both parties are involved in ongoing conflict which is plaguing organised crime groups in south-west Sydney, and I have no doubt the seizure of these weapons and the arrest of these men will hurt," Det Supt Taylor said.
"That one of these men is subject to an FPO and still chooses to carry a firearm is a real concern for us, and the entire networks of both people can expect to be firmly in the sight of police."
Raptor Squad Commander, Detective Superintendent Jason Weinstein, said police will continue to conduct proactive operations to target and disrupt any person involved in organised crime.
"The ongoing violence we're seeing in south-west Sydney poses a completely unacceptable risk to members of the community and it will not be tolerated.
"Every night, Raptor Squad officers will continue to be out in force focused on those who want to display and use the streets of Sydney to engage in violent behaviour.
"We are using every legislative tool at our disposal on those who have more sinister intentions for other members of our community," Det Supt Weinstein said.
More proactive operations and investigations targeting criminal networks are expected.
Anyone with information about organised criminal activity in the community is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.
