Two men have been charged after Police discovered a cache of 3D-printed handguns in a car on the Gold Coast.
Police intercepted a Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross in Surfers Paradise on Saturday before searching the vehicle.
Officers allegedly found firearms hidden inside a black plastic container in the boot of the car.
The driver, a 43-year-old West End man, along with a 39-year-old Kangaroo Point man were arrested at the scene and taken to the Southport Watchhouse.
Officers further searched the plastic container, uncovering 34 3D-printed Glock-style handguns, along with 800 rounds of 9mm ammunition, a quantity of handgun magazines, a quantity of rifle magazines, and a quantity of plastic rifle trigger guard assemblies.
They also allegedly uncovered a hard drive with blueprints for printing 3D firearms.
Officers also raided properties at West End and Kangaroo Point as part of their investigation.
The men were later charged with a range of offences, including supply Category H Firearm, possess Category H Firearm, possess and distribution of blueprint material for manufacture of firearms, unlawful possession of weapons 10 or more weapons being category D/E/H/R and short firearm possessed in public, possess dangerous drugs.
They were refused bail in Southport Magistrates Court on Monday.
Detective Acting Inspector Adrian Sala said the rise in 3D printing technology to create dangerous and unlawful firearms is concerning, and we will continue to run intelligence-driven operations to ensure these weapons remain off our streets.
“Detectives are committed to disrupting and taking action against the possession and supply of unlawful firearms to make our community safer.
“We urge anyone with information about these weapons and manufacturing equipment to contact police.”
