Police have charged a Cranbourne East man with firearm-related offences after seizing multiple weapons and ammunition.
Detectives from the Illicit Firearms Squad executed a warrant at a residential property in Cranbourne East on Friday 27 October.
During the search, police located a disassembled FGC-9 privately made semi-auto handgun, a Baikal 12 gauge shotgun, various cartridge ammunition (12 gauge, 9mm and .22), an unfinished firearm barrel, four samurai swords, and a 3D printer with filament.
The 21-year-old Cranbourne East man was charged with manufacturing firearm and possessing general category handgun, artridge ammunition, prohibited weapon, and items for manufacturing firearms.
According to Victoria Police, he is a licensed firearms owner and as a result of the current investigation, this license has been suspended.
He was bailed to appear at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 13 March 2024.
This investigation commenced following intelligence from Project Adestria – a joint venture between Australian Federal Police’s Forensic Intelligence, the Australian Transaction and Reports Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC), and Australian Border Force to identify and disrupt illicit firearms activities.
Victoria Police undertakes a range of compliance and enforcement activities to ensure those with firearm licences are complying with the conditions their licence.
Anyone caught breaching the conditions of their licences or failing in their obligations can expect to have their authority cancelled and to be charged or issued with penalty notices.
The Illicit Firearms Squad is based within Victoria Police’s Crime Command and targets the manufacture, trafficking, and use of illicit firearms across Victoria.
Police would like to remind licensed firearms owners to be aware of the legislation with regards to the importation and distribution of firearms parts.
Further information is available on the Victoria Police website: Importing and exporting firearms (police.vic.gov.au)
Anyone with information about illicit firearms is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
