An Eagleby man who allegedly trafficked guns to a “violent paramilitary group” in Indonesia has been charged following a two year investigation.
Police allege the 44-year-old attempted to traffic firearms and ammunition from Australia to the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) in Indonesia.
Investigations began in 2023 after a New Zealand pilot, Phillip Mehrtens, was kidnapped by members of TPNPB on a remote air strip of the Indonesian province West Papua.
According to the Australian Federal Police, Mr Mehrtens had been flying in and out of West Papua as a pilot but was kidnapped after landing a small aircraft at Paro Airport.
He was held in captivity for 592 days before being released in September 2024.
“As a result of the joint investigation into Mr Mehrten’s kidnapping, investigators uncovered evidence allegedly linking the New South Wales man and the Queensland man to the trafficking of firearms from Australia to Indonesia,” police said in a statement.
Following “extensive inquiries” and search warrants at the men’s homes, including at Eagleby, in November 2024, police allege they uncovered 13.6kg of mercury metal, which is a controlled substance.
Police allege the New South Wales man, 64, travelled to Indonesia to meet with members of the TPNPB between March and April 2024 and illegally transported an optical rifle scope into the country.
Police allege the men also discussed sourcing Australian military firearms for the paramilitary group.
The Eagleby man was charged with firearm trafficking and possessing explosives, and is facing 10 years’ imprisonment.
He was granted bail and is due to appear before the Brisbane Magistrates Court on 17 October.
The investigation was a joint operation by the federal police, Queensland Police Service and Australian Security Intelligence Organisation and New Zealand Police.
AFP assistant commissioner Stephen Nutt issued a warning to anyone involved in illegal gun trafficking.
“The use of these deadly and illegal weapons can have far-reaching consequences if they reach the wrong hands,” he said.
“The AFP works closely with our international partners, including New Zealand Police, to protect the community by disrupting criminal syndicates and removing illegal firearms from the community.”
Queensland Police Service acting assistant commissioner Heath Hutchings and New Zealand Police acting deputy commissioner Mike Pannett echoed Mr Nutt’s comments.
“This was a complex investigation involving a number of jurisdictions and challenges, and our focus was always on the safe return of Philip Mehrtens,” Mr Pennett said.
“While we are pleased Mr Mehrtens was released and able to return to his family, working closely with the Australian police agencies is an important part of protecting our community here in New Zealand.”
