Police yesterday seized more than 750 weapons from the home of a Sydney firearm dealer following allegations that the weapons were being stored in unsafe conditions at the Lugarno premises.
It follows the announcement that NSW police have also charged a Toronto man with 48 additional weapons-related offences after he was arrested late last year on seven firearm charges.
The 70-year-old dealer in Lugarno had an “extensive collection of weapons,” according to police, including ex-military firearms, antique handguns from the early 1900s and ex-military ordinances.
The weapons in the home included WWII flame throwers and ‘bazookas’, Lee Enfields, samurai swords and bayonets.
Police have not alleged the man was not properly licensed, only that storage conditions had not been adequate.
Chief-Superintendent Brad Shepherd said the police action should put all firearms dealers on notice.
“Holding a firearms licence carries with it great responsibility,” he said.
“It is vital firearm licence holders ensure all relevant regulations are adhered to so the dangerous weapons they own do not fall into the wrong hands.”
He warned dealers that if they did not stay within the law, regular audits meant it was “only a matter of time before you are caught”.
The Toronto man was initially said to be the licensed owner of over 30 handguns but had allegedly also had a number of illegal weapons and weapons parts.
Reports suggest he had an AR-15 semi-automatic rifle, although Sporting Shooter understands it was only a part of the weapon.
Further investigations by police have led to the man being charged with 45 counts of possessing or using a prohibited weapon without a permit, two of bringing in prohibited imports, and one for having an unauthorised prohibited weapon.
Police allege he had automatic weapons and over-capacity pistol magazines, and that he had imported parts in two consignments from the US.
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