On Thursday July 17, as part of ongoing enforcement action against criminal gangs, detectives from Taskforce Maxima and officers from the Australian Federal Police (including the National Anti-Gangs Squad) and the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service executed a search warrant at a Pacific Pines address, targeting the networks of the Bandidos Criminal Motor Cycle gang.
The early morning raid saw the location and seizure of a semi-automatic pistol, ammunition and silencer. The search also located a small quantity of methyl-amphetamine (ICE), steroids and drug paraphernalia.
Investigations resulted in a 42 year old, Pacific Pines man, being arrested and charged with possession of a concealable firearm, possession of a restricted weapon (silencer), possession of explosives and Possession of a dangerous drug.
He was bailed to appear in the Southport Magistrates Court on August 13.
Detective Acting Superintendent Brendan Smith of Task Force Maxima stated, “The unlawful possession of a semi-automatic handgun fitted with a silencer provides a clear picture of the criminality of these gangs. I am at loss to provide any lawful reason to possess such a weapon. The the unlawful possession of firearms are a clear threat to the Queensland community. Instances like the shooting at the Robina Shopping centre provide an ample illustration of the possible consequences.”
“Today’s actions show how the QPS, AFP and Australian Customs work together to keep our community safe. The intelligence and efforts of our Commonwealth partners are important to our success and accordingly we will continue to work together.”
