Police say they have dismantled a “sophisticated” 3D-printed gun manufacturing operation in southern Tasmania, seizing illegal firearms, 3D printers and digital blueprints for making weapons.
The alleged operation was uncovered when officers from the Southern Drugs and Firearms Unit executed a search warrant at a property in Risdon Vale on Monday, with help from Tasmania Police dogs and their handlers.
Investigators seized a range of items they say were linked to the production of illicit firearms, including guns, firearm components, ammunition and equipment used in the manufacturing process.
Detective Inspector Richard Penney said police also found electronic files containing detailed blueprints and instructions for producing firearms with a 3D printer.
“Police seized a range of items consistent with the production of illicit firearms, including seven 3D printers, 13 firearms, numerous firearm components and quantities of ammunition,” he said.
“In addition, investigators identified electronic files containing detailed blueprints and manufacturing instructions for 3D-printed firearms.”
A 43-year-old man was arrested at the scene and has since been charged with a series of firearms offences.
They include significant firearms possession offences, dealing in firearms without holding a firearms dealer licence and unlawfully possessing a digital blueprint for the manufacture of a firearm.
He has been remanded in custody and is due to appear in the Hobart Magistrates Court today.
Detective Inspector Penney said the seizure had stopped a significant number of illegal firearms from reaching the community.
“This investigation has uncovered and dismantled a sophisticated firearms manufacturing operation, and the seizure of these items has prevented a significant number of illegal firearms from entering the Tasmanian community,” he said.
“Removing these firearms and associated manufacturing equipment from circulation significantly reduces the risk they pose to community safety.”
