Particle.news
Download on the App Store
6 ARTICLES
·
13h ago

Australians Charged Over Alleged Plot to Supply Weapons to West Papua Rebels

Investigators say the two-year probe launched after the 2023 abduction of New Zealand pilot Phillip Mehrtens uncovered alleged exports to the TPNPB separatists.

Image
Image
Image
Image

Overview

  • A 44-year-old from Eagleby, Queensland, and a 64-year-old from Urunga, New South Wales, were charged after a multi-agency counter-terrorism investigation.
  • Police allege the pair sought to traffic firearms and ammunition to the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) and discussed sourcing Australian military weapons.
  • Searches in November 2024 seized ammunition and 13.6 kilograms of mercury, and investigators allege the NSW man carried an optical rifle scope into Indonesia during a 2024 trip.
  • Charges include conspiracy to export weapons and firearm parts, unlawful supply of weapons, and conspiracy to export Tier 2 goods, with the Queensland man also charged over possession of explosives.
  • Both men have been granted bail and are listed to appear at Brisbane Magistrates Court on October 17, with the case led by the Queensland Joint Counter Terrorism Team alongside AFP, QPS, ASIO and New Zealand Police.