Sydney, NSW – A 21-year-old man has been charged with a string of serious offences after Burwood Highway Patrol officers discovered a vehicle bearing fake “Chinese Police” insignia during patrols in Strathfield on Friday afternoon.
At approximately 2:50pm on 18 July 2025, officers spotted the suspicious vehicle with markings resembling those of Chinese law enforcement, including signage on the bonnet and passenger doors. Enquiries led police to a nearby man believed to be associated with the vehicle.
When questioned, the man produced a falsified document claiming the vehicle was being used to transport officials from the Chinese consulate. Officers conducted a search of the vehicle, uncovering a box containing 48 live rounds of ammunition in the boot. The man, who holds a current firearms licence, reportedly told officers he thought it was the “best place to store his ammunition.”
Police seized the ammunition and several items believed to be used to impersonate police. A subsequent search of the man’s residence in Baulkham Hills uncovered two gel blaster firearms and the two rifles registered under his name, which have been confiscated pending a review of his licence.
The man has been charged with the following offences:
- Use/display emergency services organisation insignia
- Drive motor vehicle with unlawful police insignia
- Impersonate Commonwealth public official
- Use false document to influence public duty (Tier 1)
- Two counts of failing to store Category A/B firearms appropriately
- Provide false or misleading information
- Possess unauthorised prohibited firearm
- Breach of P2 licence conditions (failure to display P-plates)
He was refused bail and is expected to appear before Parramatta Local Court at a later date.
Investigations are ongoing.