Geelong man charged with the importation of firearm magazines

A 30-year-old Geelong man has been charged with nine offences relating to the alleged importation and possession of prohibited items including firearm magazines, knives and a ballistic vest.

The man was arrested on 13 July, after the Australian Border Force (ABF) conducted an investigation which led to the execution of a Customs Act search warrant on the man’s Norlane residence, with the support of Victoria Police.

During the warrant activity, investigating officers found a variety of ammunition of varying calibre, a ballistic vest and knives, knuckle dusters and other weapons.

Following an initial hearing in Geelong in September, the man will appear again before the Geelong Magistrate’s Court on 23 December 2016 charged with:

• two counts of importing prohibited imports in contravention of Section 233BAB(5) of the Customs Act 1901; and
• seven counts of possessing prohibited imports, in contravention of Section 233(1)(d) of the Customs Act 1901.

ABF Acting Commander Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Craig Palmer, said that the ABF is committed to protecting the community from dangerous prohibited goods.

“The safety of our community is a priority for the Australian Border Force and we will continue to work with our partner agencies to ensure this safety is maintained,” Acting Commander Palmer said.

If convicted, the man faces a maximum penalty of up to 10 years’ imprisonment.

Media contact: Immigration and Border Protection (02) 6264 2244