Officers from the Mackay Whitsundays District Domestic Family Violence & Vulnerable Persons Unit, with the assistance of Mackay Tactical Crime Squad, have charged a 39-year-old Walkerston man following investigations into alleged serious domestic violence offences, including stalking and deprivation of liberty.
On June 18, police executed a high-risk search warrant at a Walkerston address, allegedly locating semi-automatic rifles and large-capacity magazines with ammunition.
Acting Inspector Scott Ingram said Mackay Whitsundays officers are committed to investigating serious crimes associated with domestic and family violence.
"The Mackay Whitsundays District is dedicated to supporting victims of domestic violence and taking firm action against offenders," said Acting Inspector Ingram.
"Everyone has the right to live without fear of domestic and family violence."
Acting Inspector Ingram said the warrant was one example in which police are disrupting the illegal use of firearms.
"Illegal firearms have no place in our community, and we will continue to target offenders and remove dangerous weapons from the streets."
A 39-year-old man from Walkerston has been charged with seven offences, including two counts of unlawful possession of a weapon (rifle), and one count each of unlawful stalking, deprivation of liberty, authority required to possess explosives (ammunition), and possess utensils.
He is due to reappear before Mackay Magistrates Court on September 8.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
Operation Whiskey Firestorm is a high-impact statewide initiative designed to tackle the critical issues of firearm safety and illicit firearms.
The operation is sending a clear message about the importance of proper firearm storage and the role licenced firearm owners play in ensuring community safety. Operation Whiskey Firestorm is also focusing on a coordinated statewide response to the investigation, prevention and disruption activities involving illicit firearms offences and violent firearm related offending.
This operation comes in response to 2024 statistics which saw 1,055 firearm licenses revoked, and over 3,290 offences involving firearms, including serious offences such as attempted murder, assault, robbery and unlawful entry.
The QPS will be conducting extensive audits, coordinating regional operations, and working with licensed firearm owners to ensure they meet safety and ownership rules and regulations.
