The illicit firearm symposium aims to address the increasing threat of privately made weapons being trafficked and manufactured by criminal groups. Detective Superintendent John Watson highlighted the need for joint action to disrupt these activities, as the barrier to entry for producing these weapons is dangerously low. He expressed concerns about criminals becoming more proficient at manufacturing firearm parts and the rising number of raids across Australia resulting in charges related to illicit guns and firearm parts.
Watson emphasized that these firearms, made from a combination of household equipment, may look toy-like but are genuine and potentially lethal weapons. He raised alarm about the increasing availability of blueprints for making guns sourced from overseas or on the dark web. The manufacturing process involves sourcing parts from various locations and assembling them like a jigsaw puzzle, ultimately creating lethal firearms. Police have encountered raids resembling a “manufacturer’s den,” with illicit guns, 3D printers, and blueprints being stockpiled and used for manufacturing weapons.
Walter Mikac, a keynote speaker at the event, commended the symposium for its proactive approach in reducing the threat of privately made firearms. Drawing from his personal experience of losing his wife and daughters in the Port Arthur massacre, he emphasized the importance of taking action to prevent such tragedies. Mikac expressed regret that similar meetings had not been held before the events at Port Arthur, which led to significant gun reforms in Australia. He highlighted the lasting impact of such incidents on individuals’ mental health and the need for preventative measures.
Recent raids by law enforcement agencies have uncovered instances of firearms being privately manufactured and imported. In one case, a search in Googong led to the seizure of various firearms, ammunition, and prohibited substances, resulting in the arrest of an 18-year-old individual. Similarly, detectives from Victoria Police’s illicit firearms squad seized handguns and other illicit items from a house in Gordon, leading to the arrest of a 47-year-old man. These incidents underscore the ongoing threat posed by privately made firearms and the need for coordinated efforts to address this issue.
The technology of 3D printing has enabled the production of entire guns, along with ammunition, using relatively affordable machinery. Criminals are leveraging this technology to manufacture firearms and evade strict firearm laws in Australia. The availability of blueprints for making guns has further facilitated the production and trafficking of illicit weapons. Law enforcement agencies are increasingly encountering cases where criminals are using 3D printing and online resources to manufacture firearms, posing a significant challenge to public safety.
The symposium serves as a platform for experts and authorities to collaborate on strategies to disrupt the trafficking and manufacturing of privately made firearms. By sharing knowledge and expertise, participants aim to develop effective interventions to address this growing threat. The event also provided an opportunity for survivors and advocates, such as Walter Mikac, to underscore the importance of proactive measures in preventing tragedies related to illicit firearms. The collective efforts of law enforcement agencies, policymakers, and community stakeholders are crucial in mitigating the risks associated with the proliferation of privately made weapons in Australia.
