A man will appear in court today charged following a police operation in Sydney's south west yesterday.
Earlier this month, officers from Camden Police Area Command commenced an investigation after receiving information from the Australian Federal Police in relation to the importation of prohibited firearms and explosives by a man in Sydney's south west.
Following inquiries, investigators arrested a 54-year-old man at a unit on Argyle Street at Picton, about 8.50am yesterday (Tuesday 20 July 2021).
A crime scene was established at the Argyle Street premises, and at a home at Wild Street, Picton.
Both locations were found to contain chemicals, which were secured and processed with assistance from specialist resources including the Drug and Firearms Squad's Chemical Operations Team, Rescue and Bomb Disposal Squad and NSW Fire and Rescue Hazmat.
During a search of both homes, police seized equipment including a rotary evaporator, heating mantle and glassware, as well as liquids and acids including fuming nitric acid.
Officers attached to the Rescue and Bomb Disposal Squad removed detonator charger casings and a firearm.
All items seized during the operation will undergo further forensic examination.
The man was taken to Narellan Police Station and charged with possess unauthorised prohibited firearm, and possess, supply or make explosive for unlawful purpose.
He was refused bail to appear at Moss Vale Local Court today (Wednesday 21 July 2021).
Specialist police will continue to process the properties over the coming days and inquiries by local police are continuing with assistance from the Counter Terrorism and Special Tactics Command.
Police have not established any ongoing threat to the community.
Investigations are continuing.
Anyone with information that may assist police is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
