Bayview man fined for fake firearms, trip alarms

A haul of dangerous trip alarms, ammunition, fireworks and replica guns has been uncovered at a Darwin home. See what was confiscated.

A raid on a Bayview home has prompted police to warn Territorians against importing imitation firearms and trip alarms.

Australian Border Force and Northern Territory Police seized seven gel blasters including two AR15 and four Glock imitation firearms during the raid on the Bayview home in April.

A small quantity of illegal drugs, ammunition and fireworks were also seized during the search.

Neighbours of the man told the NT News police were seen descending on the home and remained at the scene for hours, with weapons and boxed marked ‘explosives’ later seen being taken away.

The ABF said the 45-year-old male occupant of the home had initially come to the organisation’s attention after he attempted to import 18 trip alarms through the post.

ABF chief superintendent Tracie Griffin said trip alarms were not harmless toys or convenient security devices.

Police and border officials have warned against trip alarms.

“It is a serious offence to bring firearms or firearm parts into the country without the appropriate permission,” Chief Superintedent Griffen said.

“People are advised to always check first to see if an item is a prohibited import.”

ABF said trip alarms were dangerous devices, capable of firing live ammunition.

They activate when a person trips the trip wire on the device. The activation then fires off a 12-guage shotgun round that serves as the alarm.

The devices are capable of firing an explosive round and are considered to be a firearm under Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956, which puts them in the same category as any other prohibited weapon.

One of the imitation weapons seized at Bayview

Importing a trip alarm without the appropriate authority is an offence under the Custom Act 1901, and is punishable by imprisonment of up to 10 years, a substantial fine or both.

Under the Firearms Act NT, it is also illegal to be in possession of imitation firearms, such as gel blasters, airsoft, hydro blasters or gel ball firearms. Non-firing imitation firearms are prohibited under the Weapons Act NT.

Senior Sergeant Shayne Warden of the NT Firearms Unit said the supply, distribution and use of illegal firearms caused immense harm through the community and NT Police would continue to work closely with federal counterparts to ensure the practice is disrupted at every opportunity.

“Imitation firearms are of particular concern as they are almost indistinguishable from actual firearms and cause undue fear when used,” Senior Sergeant Warden said.

“They are prohibited weapons for a reason, and anyone found in their possession will have them seized and will be charged.”

It is understood the man has been issued an infringement.