Members of Taskforce Scelus executed a search warrant at the Burnie address on Sunday afternoon (21 June), locating a significant quantity of 3D-printed firearms, firearms parts and ammunition – including a printed firearms silencer, sub machine gun, and several pistols – along with a 3D printer, quantities of illicit substances, and drug paraphernalia.

Members of Western Drugs and Firearms Unit attended the search and a 38-year-old Burnie man was arrested.

He has since been charged with significant firearms possession offences as well as dealing in firearms when not the holder of a firearms dealer licence and unlawfully possess digital blueprint for manufacture of firearm.

He was detained to appear in the Burnie Magistrates Court today.

Detective Inspector Michelle Elmer said police remain committed to identifying and disrupting those involved in the manufacture, distribution and possession of illegal firearms.

“This seizure has disrupted the distribution of a significant number of firearms that are not only illegal, but dangerous,” she said.

“Firearms in the wrong hands pose a serious risk to community safety, and we will continue to remove these dangerous weapons from the community, and disrupt those intending to manufacture and distribute them.”

“Investigations are ongoing, and as always we encourage anyone with information about illegal firearms activity to contact police.”

Information can be provided by contacting police on 131 444, or Crime Stoppers Tasmania anonymously on 1800 333 000, or online at crimestopperstas.com.au.