Law enforcement agencies have taken over 1,000 illicit firearms, including 3D printed and privately manufactured weapons, out of circulation in a targeted crackdown.
The National Illicit Firearms Working Group, which includes Federal agencies such as Australian Border Force (ABF) and Australian Federal Police (AFP), as well as police from jurisdictions across Australia and New Zealand, took co-ordinated action between Monday 13 October and Sunday 19 October in relation to potential firearm imports and persons of interest.
The SSAA welcomes this focus of law enforcement agencies on the unlawful firearm manufacturing and possession.
The ABF stated that this action disrupts criminals seeking to obtain illegal firearms and firearm parts which can harm the Australian community and send a clear message to those who think they can operate in the shadows.
While these operations have led to significant arrests and seizures, the ABF have also reiterated that this isn’t just about seizing parts and printers, it’s about public safety and responsible gun ownership to make our communities safer.
The co-ordinated action led to:
· 184 arrests;
· 854 charges laid;
· 719 whole firearms seized;
· 489 firearm parts seized;
· 64 imitation firearms/gel blasters seized;
· 281 3D/privately manufactured firearms and/or parts seized;
· 215 search warrants executed;
· 21 Firearm Prohibition Orders issued;
· 35 firearms licences suspended/cancelled;
· 38 warnings and/or infringement notices issued; and
· 2542 compliance visits and safe storage inspections completed.
A list of specific operations carried out during the week of action across the nation can be seen here – ABF Led Firearm Operation.