Operation Black Snake Uncovers Arsenal

In a significant breakthrough, Queensland Police have charged a 45-year-old man from Kilkivan following the execution of a search warrant under Operation Black Snake. The operation, aimed at investigating alleged breaches of a domestic violence order, led to the discovery of a cache of firearms and other dangerous items.

The search, conducted on June 29 at a residence on Black Snake Road, involved officers from Kilkivan Station, the Wide Bay Burnett Tactical Crime Squad, Maryborough Dog Squad, Public Response Safety Team, and Gympie Station. Police allege they found several shotguns, rifles, pistols, firearm parts, ammunition, a mace, drug paraphernalia, chemicals, and a stolen firearms license.

The suspect faces multiple charges, including three counts of contravening a domestic violence order and various weapons-related offenses. He remains in custody, awaiting his court appearance on July 3 at the Gympie Magistrates Court.

Chief Inspector Mike Miley of the Gympie Patrol Group expressed satisfaction with the haul, highlighting the community’s safety as a priority. “It is concerning that this man was allegedly in possession of a significant quantity of unlicensed firearms,” said Chief Inspector Miley. “Operation Black Snake is part of ongoing work to target high-risk domestic and family violence offenders and support victim-survivors.”

Authorities urge the community to report any suspicious activities to Policelink or anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Support services are available for those experiencing domestic and family violence.