Significant weapons seizure in Sydney

Significant weapons seizure in Sydney

Customs has seized one of the largest quantities of illegal weapons ever discovered in Australia during raids on five premises in southern Sydney.

"This is a massive amount of weaponry which no longer presents a threat to the Australian community," said Customs Regional Director NSW, David Collins.

The captured cache includes:

• 449 knives and daggers

• 267 replica firearms and pistol lighters

• 171 electric shock devices including stun guns

• 88 bags of slingshot ballbearings

• 86 slingshots

• 75 sword sticks

• 10 blowdarts

Customs investigators found the weapons during warrant actions executed on five premises in Hurstville and Riverwood on Wednesday and yesterday. The Customs investigation began after Customs officers intercepted two cartons containing 50 blowpipes and 12 pistol crossbows which were concealed within a sea cargo container of display units and novelty goods. The container arrived at Port Botany from Shanghai, China, in August.

Mr Collins said: "These weapons have the potential to cause serious harm in the community. The fact that they have been seized is testimony to the excellent work undertaken by our officers at the border and during the investigation."

Unless prior permission has been obtained, such items are considered prohibited imports under Customs regulations. Importers of these types of weapons, who do not have the necessary permission, face a fine of up to $275,000 and/or ten years imprisonment.

Investigations are continuing. However charges are likely to be laid.

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