Leschenault raid uncovers firearm silencer

Border Force officers discovered a firearm silencer during a raid on a Leschenault property last month.

Australian Border Force investigators searched the home on August 22 after officers say they intercepted a parcel containing an “unfinished firearm suppressor” from Thailand earlier in the year.

Investigations are continuing and no charges have yet been laid.

The search was part of a national week of action focussed on reducing the theft of firearms in the community.

South West police were among law enforcement agencies across the country who took part in the week-long Operation Athena Alpha.

The operation saw 75 properties checked in the South West with inspections aimed at making sure owners were storing and securing their firearms correctly.

Despite the discovery of the silencer, South West Insp. Peter Jenal praised the region’s firearm holders.

“It was pretty well received by the community,” Insp. Jenal said.

“We did 75 firearm cabinet inspections through the South West and we didn’t identify any issues at all.

“People were compliant and we just want to thank them for being part of the operation and agreeing and complying with what was required of them.”

He said while the operation was a week-long initiative, police had a focus on firearm ownership year-round.

“Obviously it’s extremely important because we don’t want firearms getting into the hands of the wrong people,” Insp. Jenal said.

“If they’re in the wrong hands then people could be out and about doing the wrong thing.”