Man charged over stolen rocket launchers

After an extended joint operation conducted between New South Wales Police, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO), a man has been arrested in relation to his alleged involvement with seven stolen rocket launchers.

The man, a 28-year-old from Sydney, was arrested by police at a residence in Leumeah, NSW early this morning.

NSW Police officers, AFP agents and ASIO members have been jointly investigating information suggesting people already in custody and charged with a terrorism-related offence had procured a number of Light Anti-Armour Weapons.

On 30 September 2006, police recovered one of the weapons which is believed to be the property of the Australian Defence Force, as part of the ongoing investigation.

The man arrested today, has been charged with 17 offences which include two counts of dishonestly receiving stolen property under section 132.1(1) of the Criminal Code Act 1995, and seven counts each of unauthorised possession of a prohibited weapon under section 7(1) and the unauthorised supply of a prohibited weapon under section 23 (3) of the Weapons Prohibition Act 1998.

As a result of a search warrant conducted at the same residence in Lumeah on 15 December 2006, the man has also been charged with possession of ammunition under section 65 of the Ammunition and Firearms Act 1996.

Enquiries are continuing in relation to the original theft of the seven rocket launchers.

Assistant Commissioner Nick Kaldas, NSW Police Commander, Counter Terrorism Command said the arrest was not the end of the investigation.

“I want to assure the public that we have significant resources working on finding these weapons. It is important that if anyone in the community has any information regarding prohibited or illegally obtained weapons, they should contact police immediately,” he said

Assistant Commissioner Frank Prendergast, AFP National Manager Counter Terrorism said police were on the hunt for the outstanding weapons.

“Today’s arrest is part of a much wider investigation which has links to a number of matters before the Court which we are unable to comment on. However, I can say we have a number of leads which are being vigorously pursued,” he said.

Anyone with any information is encouraged to call Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000 or the National Security Hotline on 1800 123 400.

Media enquiries:

NSW Police Media (02) 8263 6100 or AFP National Media (02) 6275 7100