Translate
A 35-year-old Taylor man will face the ACT Magistrates Court today after allegedly using a 3D printer to illegally manufacture firearms and prohibited weapons.
A search warrant was executed at his residence and police located 3D printed handguns, and handgun parts.
Police also located prohibited weapons including approximately thirty 3D printed knuckle dusters, 12 conducted electrical weapons (tasers), 7 pepper spray cans, a stun gun, drugs alleged to be steroids and approximately 100 packets of illicit imported tobacco cigarettes.
During the search officers located weapons packaged in shipping bags, which police allege indicates the items were being prepared for sale and distribution.
The items were seized by police along with a 3D printer and computer which will undergo forensic examination.
The 35-year-old man was arrested and will face the ACT Magistrates Court today (Saturday 8 August) charged with unauthorised manufacture of a firearm and possess/use a prohibited weapon without authorisation.
Police are conducting further enquires and further charges are expected to be laid in relation to this investigation.
ACT Policing reminds the community that the manufacture of firearms or firearm parts using 3D printers or any other equipment is illegal. All items used to create a firearm are also subject to criminal asset confiscation including printers, machines, phones, and computers.
Detective Acting Inspector Mark Battye said the seizure highlighted the serious risk illegal firearms and prohibited weapons pose to the community.
“Weapons such as these are incredibly dangerous, particularly when they are traded or sold to people who may use them to commit violent crimes,” Detective Acting Inspector Battye said.
“Removing these items from circulation helps protect the community and prevents them from being used to cause serious harm.”
Please are asking anyone with information on the illegal manufacture of firearms or firearm parts to contact Crime Stoppers via their website.
