WATSONIA, VIC. — Detectives from the Illicit Firearms Squad yesterday charged a 55-year-old Watsonia man as part of an investigation into the manufacturing and trafficking of firearms.
The Watsonia man was charged with non-prohibited person possessing a handgun without a licence, possessing an unregistered handgun, manufacturing a general category handgun without a dealer’s licence, possessing firearm parts for manufacture, possessing instructions for the manufacture of a firearm and possessing ammunition without a licence.
He has been summoned to appear at Heidelberg Magistrates’ Court on December 8.
A search warrant was executed at a Watsonia address on July 30, where detectives seized 27 items, including:
- A privately made semi-automatic pistol, similar to a Ruger MkIV Target;
- Privately made firearm parts for a semi-automatic pistol, similar to a Ruger MkIV Target;
- A quantity of live .22 cartridge ammunition;
- Steel pipe, various springs and fixings;
- Two 3D printers; and
- Printed out firearm manufacture schematics/blueprints.
The investigation began following information received from Australian Border Force, which plays a key role in the detection of offences and assists in the disruption of illicit firearm activity.
Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
