A man has been charged after dozens of guns, including 3D-printed weapons, ammunition, cash and drugs were seized from a home in Melbourne’s south-east.
The investigation started in July when detectives received information about a suspicious firearms transaction.
Two search warrants were executed at a home in Bentleigh East on Monday, allegedly uncovering over 50 items, including three guns, a semi-automatic pistol, and an imitation Colt 1911 pistol.
They also allegedly found two 3D printers, 3D-printed handgun receivers, various commercially made firearm parts, large amounts of ammunition, various drugs and about $20,000 in cash.
Police also raided a storage facility in Cheltenham at the same time, allegedly finding three more guns, a 3D-printed handgun, two privately made 3D revolvers, more handgun lower receivers, firearm parts, ammunition and a blue and white crystal substance which police allege is methylamphetamine.
They also allegedly found fraudulent South Australian firearms licences at both properties.
Victoria Police Detective Inspector Julie Macdonald said private intelligence led to the major bust.
“This investigation highlights the importance of intelligence provided to police,” Macdonald said.
“We’ve said it before, but information provided by industry, members of the public, anyone – is invaluable, and we will always act upon it.
“If you see something suspicious, say something. It can always be reported anonymously via the Crime Stoppers online platform.”
A 30-year-old man was charged with over 27 offences, including manufacturing guns, trafficking a commercial quantity of methylamphetamine, possessing a traffickable amount of guns and other charges.
He was remanded in custody and will appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on October 6.
