Firearms seized in Collie

A 33-year-old Collie man is facing multiple weapons charges following a search by the Australian Border Force and WA Police Force on a residential property.

Yesterday’s search involved officers from ABF Regional Investigations and Bunbury Detectives with support from an ABF firearms detector dog.

It was a part of Operation Athena, a multi-agency initiative designed to target the trafficking and use of illicit firearms throughout Australia.

Six unlicensed firearms were seized along with a variety of ammunition, several controlled and prohibited items and drug implements.

It will be alleged most of the weapons were stored in a concealed compartment behind the stove in the kitchen.

Among the seized items are a Ruger 10/22 rifle, one handgun, a 17HM Marlin rifle, a semi-automatic shotgun, a Ruger 222 rifle, a Savage M93 rifle and a variety of ammunition.

ABF WA Superintendent of investigations, Clinton Sims said the man could face possible charges of up to ten years imprisonment and a fine of up to $525,000 under the Customs Act.

“These items are highly restricted and have potential to cause great community harm,” he said.

“Yesterday’s results highlight the excellent working relationship between the State, Federal and international law enforcement partners and their efforts to combat the scourge of illegal firearms.”

The accused man is not the holder of a firearms licence.

He was refused bail and was due to appear in the Bunbury Magistrates Court today.

The investigation commenced in September when ABF officers at the Sydney Gateway Facility examined an air parcel sent from Israel and allegedly found a rifle chassis that incorporates a folding stock, which is a prohibited item in Australia.