The Firearm and Cannabis Team (FACT) have charged a 66-year-old Russell Island man with multiple weapons offences following the execution of a search warrant on a Russell Island property last month.
Following the Australian Border Force's initial detection of several life card firearms in Sydney on 30 January, the Queensland Police Service (QPS) FACT and Russell Island officers executed a search warrant at a Binalong Street property around 11am on 4 March.
It will be alleged police located and seized five insecure firearms including two unregistered shotguns, an unregistered air rifle, and two registered air rifles.
It will be further alleged police located and seized 21 life card firearms and ammunition from the property.
Detective Superintendent Brad Phelps said QPS remains committed to locating and seizing illegal firearms in order to protect the community.
"Life Card replica guns may appear to be toys but they are far from harmless. Buying, importing, or possessing these items is a serious criminal offence," he said.
"They are capable of causing serious injury or even death, and pose a significant risk to both the community and police.
"These laws exist to safeguard our community, and we urge anyone with information to report it to police.
"The QPS and ABF remain vigilant, relentlessly targeting illegal firearms to protect public safety."
Det. Supt. Brad Phelps added registered firearms, if stored incorrectly, pose a significant risk to the community and are a serious breach of the Weapons Act.
"We appeal to gun owners to secure their weapons and store them appropriately," he said.
A 66-year-old Russell Island man has been charged with one count each of possession of unregistered firearm, secure storage of weapons – licensee, and possession/acquiring restricted items.
He is due to appear before Cleveland Magistrates Court on 28 April.
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.
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 or call 131 444.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
