Multiple Men Charged During NSW Firearms Prohibition Order Crackdown

Multiple men have been charged during a series of Firearms Prohibition Order (FPO) compliance operations across southern New South Wales this week.

Police allege one man was charged with a string of offences including three counts of possess prohibited drug, three counts of acquire prohibited firearm while subject to a prohibition order, two counts of use prohibited weapon contrary to a prohibition order, recklessly dealing with proceeds of crime greater than $5,000, and failing to comply with a digital evidence access order direction.

The man was initially refused bail before appearing at Bail Division Local Court on Tuesday, May 5, where he was granted conditional bail to appear before Albury Local Court on May 20.

In a separate incident about 11.30am on Tuesday, May 5, officers attended a unit complex in South Albury following reports a man wanted in Victoria had crossed the border.

During a search of the property, police allegedly located a 33-year-old man hiding in a roof cavity. After a short standoff, the man was taken to hospital for treatment to an eye injury before being charged with apprehension on warrant issued in another state. He has since been extradited to Victoria.

About 11.20am on Monday, May 4, officers conducted an FPO compliance check at a home in North Albury where police allegedly seized ammunition, including a shotgun cartridge.

Police also uncovered a suspected explosive device, which was later rendered safe following advice from the Rescue and Bomb Disposal Unit.

A 44-year-old man was arrested and charged with acquiring ammunition while subject to a prohibition order, possessing ammunition without the proper licence or permit, and hindering police in the execution of duty.

He was refused bail before appearing at Bail Division Local Court on Tuesday, May 5, where he was granted conditional bail to appear before Albury Local Court on May 19.

Meanwhile, about 11.50am on Wednesday, May 6, officers carried out another FPO compliance check at a home in Lloyd.

Police allege a 43-year-old man assaulted a senior constable during the operation. He was arrested and taken to Wagga Wagga Police Station, where he was charged with assaulting a police officer causing actual bodily harm and two counts of hindering or resisting police.

He was refused bail before appearing at Bail Division Local Court on Thursday, May 7, where he was granted conditional bail to appear before Wagga Wagga Local Court on May 20.

Investigations into organised criminal activity remain ongoing.