Man Faces Gun Smuggling Charges
Man Faces Gun Smuggling Charges
The man faces a maximum penalty of a $782,500 fine and/or 10 years' imprisonment.
A man will face court today (September 18) accused of trying to smuggle firearms and ammunition from the Gold Coast to New Zealand.
The 62-year-old man was preparing to depart for New Zealand on Wednesday 4 September 2024, when airline representatives alerted Australian Border Force officers shortly after he checked in his luggage.
When Australian Border Force officers approached the passenger and spoke to him, he allegedly produced a plastic-taped parcel containing 200 bullets and 65 shotgun shells.
Further investigations revealed the man had an additional 290 projectiles and shell casings in his possession.
Officers allegedly then discovered a bolt internal magazine, trigger and trigger guard, firing pin and two firearm stocks in his carry-on baggage. A search of his checked luggage reportedly found to contain three firearm barrels and three bags of ammunition wadding.
The man faces a maximum penalty of a $782,500 fine and/or 10 years imprisonment.
Australian Border Force Superintendent Amanda Coppleman said it was rare for officers to locate firearms and ammunition in luggage, but it was illegal and incredibly dangerous.
“It is incredibly reckless to attempt to bring such items on board a commercial airliner. Exporting firearms parts and accessories without a permit is illegal," Superintendent Coppleman said.
“I would like to thank the airline for their assistance, and commend the ABF officers involved in de-risking the situation swiftly.”
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