Mark Quentin Sargent charged with trying to export gun parts, bullets via Gold Coast Airport
A man has allegedly been caught with firearm parts and hundreds of bullets stashed in his luggage as he tried to leave the country via Gold Coast Airport. SEE THE VIDEO
Police & Courts
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A man has been charged with trying to smuggle firearm parts and hundreds of bullets out of the country at Gold Coast International Airport.
Mark Quentin Sargent was allegedly trying to fly to New Zealand on September 4 when Australian Border Force (ABF) officers were alerted shortly after he checked his luggage.
It is alleged the 62-year-old produced a taped-up parcel containing 200 bullets and 65 shotgun shells after a short discussion with ABF officers.
His full stash is alleged to have included a bolt internal magazine, trigger and trigger guard, firing pin and two firearm stocks in his carry-on bags along with another three firearm barrels, three bags of ammunition wadding, and an additional 290 projectiles and shell casings.
The New Zealand national was charged with attempted exportation of tier 2 goods, namely firearms parts and accessories.
The maximum penalty for an individual importing or exporting firearm parts or accessories is $782,500 or 10 years’ jail, according to an ABF statement.
Mr Sargent fronted Southport Magistrates Court on Wednesday, where his case was adjourned to October 21. He remains on bail.
Neither he nor his lawyer, Tom Gardiner of Fisher Dore Lawyers, would comment on the case.
In a statement released earlier on Wednesday, ABF superintendent Amanda Coppleman said it was rare for officers to locate firearms and ammunition in luggage.
“It is incredibly reckless to attempt to bring such items on-board a commercial airliner. Exporting firearms parts and accessories without a permit is illegal,” she said.
“I would like to thank the airline for their assistance and commend the ABF offices involved in de-risking the situation swiftly.
“This incident sends a very clear message to the community – the ABF takes these matters seriously and anyone engaging in this type of behaviour can expect to face the full legal consequences.”
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