This is a joint statement with the Australian Border Force and Western Australia Police Force.
Australian Border Force has removed a collection of prohibited weapons from Perth streets after executing search warrants under Operation ATHENA.
Eight firearm silencers, nine extendable batons, six trip alarms, three mobile phones, as well as an SD card containing information on 3D printing firearms were seized by ABF officers as part of the investigation into an alleged firearms manufacturer.
The warrants were supported by the WA Police Force (WAPF), who arrested the 39 year-old man, and further seized equipment suspected to be used in the manufacture of privately made firearms and small amounts of methamphetamine and cocaine.
WAPF charged the man with 11 offences including possessing prohibited weapons, controlled weapons, firearm technology, drug paraphernalia, cannabis and possessing cocaine and methamphetamine with intent to sell/supply.
ABF Acting Inspector Matt Tanner said the investigation began when officers at Sydney Gateway Facility intercepted a consignment labelled as 'car tools' destined for an Orange Grove residence, which contained firearm suppressors.
"The seamless cooperation both between ABF regional commands and with our partners in the WA Police Force has resulted in dangerous weapons being removed from the streets of Perth," Acting Inspector Tanner said.
"Organised crime syndicates try to evade detection by importing individual parts that make up a firearm. These parts can be combined with 3D printed parts resulting in the manufacture of very dangerous privately made firearms.
"The Australian border is our most critical national asset and we will not allow criminals to undermine its integrity."
WA Police Force is committed to reducing the availability of illegally manufactured and unlicensed firearms within our community. One of the ways we do this is working with the Australian Border Force to identify offenders involved in attempting to possess firearm parts purchased overseas. This investigation is an example of the ongoing co-operation between the WA Police Force and Australian Border Force.
ABF investigators are now assessing evidence and considering charges relating to the importation of prohibited weapons, weapon parts and accessories.
The man appeared before the Perth Magistrates Court on 5 October 2023 and is next due to appear on 13 October 2023.
