Two men have been charged over an alleged illegal firearms manufacturing operation after police seized 3D printers and homemade weapons during raids across southern Tasmania.
Officers from the Southern District Drugs and Firearms Unit executed search warrants at properties in Glenorchy, Risdon Vale and Austins Ferry on Tuesday.
They allegedly uncovered what detectives have described as a “significant” operation.
Police say the raids turned up two 3D printers, multiple firearm components, several completed 3D-printed firearms and silencers, $44,000 in cash and a quantity of methylamphetamine.
A 29-year-old Glenorchy man and a 28-year-old Risdon Vale man were arrested and have been remanded in custody.
Both face charges including manufacturing and dealing in firearms, possessing 3D-firearm digital blueprints and drug possession.
The Glenorchy man has also been charged with recklessly discharging a firearm in a public place on multiple occasions.
Detective Inspector Richard Penney said the discovery represented a significant threat to public safety.
“Police will allege they have uncovered and dismantled a significant illicit firearms manufacturing setup involving 3D printing technology,” he said.
“These types of weapons pose a serious risk to community safety and we remain committed to holding accountable those who endanger the public through the production of illicit firearms.”
Anyone with information about illegal firearms or drug activity is urged to contact police on 131 444 or report anonymously to Crime Stoppers.
