A car that allegedly failed to stop for police has led them to a property where they seized 12 firearms and drugs.
Police conducting traffic patrols on Maple Street, Maleny, about 6.40am on Sunday noticed an orange Ford Fiesta with false registration plates.
The unlicensed driver allegedly failed to stop for police and drove to a property on Hillside Lane, Bald Knob.
Police attempted to arrest the driver for disqualified driving when a second man allegedly obstructed them, prompting the arrival of more police, supported by Polair.
A search warrant was executed which resulted in police locating 12 firearms, including shotguns, rifles and handguns.
The Sunshine Coast Tactical Crime Squad located and seized several false number plates, a hydroponic set-up, small quantities of drugs including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), gamma-butyrolactone (GML), mushrooms, cannabis, various tablets and liquids, and seedlings, as well as drug utensils.
A 65-year-old Maleny man’s firearms licence has been revoked and he has been charged with three counts of offence to buy or possess medicines or hazardous poisons, and one count each of producing dangerous drugs, possessing dangerous drugs, possessing anything used in the commission of crime, unlawful possession of weapons, and secure storage of weapons.
He is due to appear in Caloundra Magistrates Court on January 9.
Police are continuing to look for the driver of the vehicle, which has been impounded for 90 days.
Sunshine Coast District Officer Acting Superintendent Chris Toohey said investigations were continuing.
“This seizure demonstrates the Queensland Police Service’s commitment to keeping our community safe, with 12 less firearms in our community,” Acting Supt Toohey said.
“This is part of our wider focus on disrupting the illegal use and movement of firearms.”
Act Supt Toohey said anyone who attempted to obstruct officers, violently or otherwise, could expect “a significant response” from police.
“The safety of our officers is of upmost importance to me so police will always swiftly respond to anyone who threatens that,” he said.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation or the whereabouts of the driver should contact police.
