Aiden Takacs granted bail after police find replica firearms in bedroom

Police allegedly found a stock of replica firearms in a man’s bedroom with knuckledusters hanging above his bed.

Aiden Takacs allegedly had replica firearms and knuckledusters in his bedroom. Picture: Facebook

A Mount Warrigal man allegedly found with firearms and knuckledusters in his bedroom has been released on bail, after a court heard he had an “obsession and fixation” with how they work.

Aiden Takacs, 26, appeared in Wollongong Local Court from cells at Wollongong Police Station on Monday, after police allegedly found him in possession of replica pistols, swords and daggers and a pair of knuckledusters.

The 26-year-old was charged with seven offences, including possess unregistered prohibited firearm, possess unauthorised pistol and possess, supply or make explosive for unlawful purpose.

In court on Monday, his defence lawyer Matt Ward told the court Mr Takacs suffered from a form of high-functioning autism and that his alleged possession of the weapons was “not for harm or use”.

“This possession was one of fixation and obsession of how they work,” he told the court.

“He takes them apart and looks at how they work”.

Despite police prosecutor Sergeant James Sala opposing bail, Magistrate Michael O’Brien chose to grant Mr Takacs release, noting his mental health issues and autism diagnosis.

“He may not be an appropriate vehicle for general deterrence given his mental health issues,” Magistrate O’Brien said.

Aiden Takacs appeared at Wollongong Local Court. Picture: Steven Bell

The court heard police found the items in Mr Takacs’s bedroom, after they were called to the home he shares with his parents for an unrelated matter.

In searching his bedroom, police allegedly found several “serious” items, most of which were on display in plain view.

In documents tendered to the court, police allege they found three air pistol firearms, two of which were fitted with magazines and capable of shooting small projectiles, as well as Gel Blaster ammunition.

A military-style air rifle was found sitting on a cardboard box according to the documents, while an Uzi-style firearm with a magazine attached was found under his bed.

A set of knuckledusters were allegedly found hanging right above his bed, while fireworks, both homemade and purchased, were allegedly found in drawers and under his bed.

Mr Takacs was arrested that afternoon at Lake Illawarra Police Station, where he allegedly made admissions to police about having the firearms and explosives, however said there was “no malice” behind it, and he used them as toys.

In court on Monday, Mr Ward said Mr Takacs’s family was “frustrated” by how easily the replica guns could be purchased online from Australian and international stores.

In granting bail, Magistrate O’Brien ordered Mr Takacs stay away from any websites or manufacturers responsible for the sale of the firearms.

The matter will return to court next month.