Detectives from Frankston Crime Investigation Unit (CIU) arrested one man and seized several 3D printed handguns in Cranbourne East last week as part of an investigation into firearm trafficking and manufacturing across Melbourne’s South East.
A search warrant was executed at a Cranbourne East address on Thursday 17 August, with police recovering a range of items from the house, including:
• Five 3D printed handguns, including one designed to fire shotgun rounds
• One semi-automatic handgun
• Additional 3D printed firearms parts, including barrels, magazines, and frames
• Ammunition
• 3D printer
A 31-year-old male was arrested at the address and has since been charged with manufacturing and trafficking firearms. He was remanded to appear at Frankston Magistrates Court on the 12 September.
The investigation commenced after police apprehended a 24-year-old male in Langwarrin in March. After a search, the male was allegedly found in possession of an imitation handgun.
Following this arrest, police searched a factory in Carrum Downs on 11 May, recovering two handguns, including one manufactured by a 3D printer.
A 32-year-old Carrum Downs man was arrested and charged with prohibited person in charge of firearms and possess a drug of dependence. He was remanded at the time, before being later sentenced to four months imprisonment at Frankston Magistrates Court.
The investigation concluded this week with the arrest at Cranbourne East.
In total, Frankston CIU seized nine firearms, including six 3D printed handguns, as a result of this investigation.
Senior Sergeant Stephen Fyffe reiterated the dangers of printed weapons.
“As police, we are constantly evolving to combat new and emerging trends used by criminals,” Sgt Fyffe said.
“We’ve been monitoring the issue of 3D printed firearms for a number of years and there are serious repercussions associated with this kind of activity.
“We have dismantled a local firearms manufacturing enterprise this week and taken nine illicit firearms off the streets.
“It is illegal to manufacture firearms without a licence, and that includes 3D printed guns.”
