Firearms seized, Beenleigh
QPS Media on Feb 5, 2025 @ 12:09pm
A search warrant executed by Logan Tactical Crime Squad (TCS) officers has led to the seizure of multiple firearms, including stolen weapons, at a Beenleigh address as part of Operation Whiskey Firestorm targeting firearm-related crime.
Around 10am on January 20, police attended a Gona Street address following a Triple Zero (000) call reporting a man allegedly brandishing a rifle in the backyard. With support from the Public Safety Response Team (PSRT), officers gained entry to the property and executed a search warrant, where, it will be alleged, they located four shortened firearms, two suppressors and a quantity of ammunition.
Further investigations revealed three of the seized firearms had been reported stolen, with inquiries ongoing.
A 42-year-old man was arrested and charged with eleven firearm and property offences, including five counts of unlawful possession of weapons category D/H/R weapon, three counts of receiving tainted property firearm/ammunition and one count each of authority required to possess explosives, unlawful possession of weapons category A, B OR M and fail to properly dispose of needle and syringe. He was refused police bail and remains in custody.
He is due to appear at Beenleigh Magistrates Court on February 18.
Investigations are continuing.
This operation forms part of Operation Whiskey Firestorm, a high-impact statewide initiative designed to tackle the critical issues of firearm safety and illicit firearms; those firearms falling into the wrong hands.
Operation Whiskey Firestorm is sending a clear message about the importance of proper firearm storage and the role licenced firearm owners play in ensuring community safety.
Operation Whiskey Firestorm is also focusing on a coordinated state-wide response to the investigation, prevention and disruption activities involving illicit firearms offences and violent firearms related offending. This operation comes in response to 2024 statistics which saw 1,055 firearm licenses revoked, and over 3,290 offences involving firearms, including serious offences such as attempted murder, assault, robbery and unlawful entry.
The QPS will be conducting extensive audits, coordinating regional operations, and working with licensed firearm owners to ensure they meet safety and ownership rules and regulations.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
Quote this reference number: QP2500118290