Sydney Man Charged After Allegedly Importing Illegal Firearm Parts
A 35-year-old Western Sydney man has been charged with multiple firearms-related offences after an investigation by the Australian Border Force (ABF) uncovered the alleged importation of prohibited firearm parts into Australia.
The investigation began in March 2026 when ABF officers in New South Wales intercepted and seized two firearm barrels concealed within an air cargo consignment. Following extensive inquiries, ABF investigators, assisted by the NSW Police Force Drug and Firearms Squad, executed a search warrant at a residence in Kemps Creek on 11 June 2026.
During the operation, authorities allegedly discovered three privately manufactured firearms, a rifling button used in firearm production, and several electronic devices. NSW Police also seized a number of prohibited weapons, including concealable blades, a butterfly knife, flick knives, knuckle dusters, OC spray, a single-shot pistol, and spent cartridge casings. These items are undergoing further forensic examination.
The man was arrested and taken to Liverpool Police Station, where he was charged with:
- Two counts of intentionally importing Tier 2 goods without approval under the Customs Act 1901 (Cth);
- One count of acquiring a firearm part while subject to a firearms prohibition order under the Firearms Act 1996 (NSW); and
- One count of possessing a prohibited drug under the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985 (NSW).
He was refused bail and is scheduled to appear before the Downing Centre Local Court on 6 August 2026.
ABF Commander Graeme Campbell said intercepting firearms and firearm parts at the border is crucial to protecting the Australian community.
“Every detection at the border is essential, with highly skilled ABF investigators working to identify those responsible and stop these weapons before they can do harm,” Commander Campbell said.
He warned that imported firearm parts can be assembled into dangerous and untraceable weapons, posing a significant risk to public safety.
Commander Campbell also reaffirmed the ABF’s commitment to intelligence-led operations targeting individuals attempting to import illicit firearms and firearm components into Australia.
NSW Police Drug and Firearms Squad Commander John Watson said the case highlights the strong partnership between state and federal law enforcement agencies.
“When illicit items are detected at the border, our investigators move quickly to identify those responsible and prevent further offending,” Detective Superintendent Watson said.
He added that privately manufactured and unregistered firearms present a serious threat to community safety and are often used by offenders seeking to avoid police detection.
Authorities have emphasised that investigations into the seized items remain ongoing. The charges have not yet been tested in court, and the accused is entitled to the presumption of innocence.
Source:This is a joint media release between the Australian Border Force and NSW Police Force
