Sydney: Brothers To Pay More Than $245,000 - Weapons Convictions

Sydney: Brothers to pay more than $245,000 for importing and possessing prohibited weapons

Two Sydney brothers were convicted on Tuesday at the Downing Centre Local Court on 24 charges of importing and possessing prohibited weapons and were ordered to pay a total of $245,896 including court fees and professional costs.

Customs and Border Protection National Manager Investigations, Kingsley Woodford-Smith, said the prosecutions send a strong message to those thinking of importing prohibited or restricted weapons without a permit.

"This case highlights the significant penalties that individuals can receive if they are involved with this type of illegal activity," Mr Woodford-Smith said.

"People need to be aware that the importation of some weapons - including flick knives, knuckle dusters, mobile phone stun guns and pepper sprays - is restricted under the Customs Act 1901.

"Importing such weapons without permission carries heavy penalties with a maximum fine of up to $275,000 or ten years gaol, or both."

Between December 2009 and June 2010, a total of 17 packages were seized by Customs and Border Protection officers at the Sydney international mail centre and more items were found following warrant action at the defendant's residences. The packages were addressed to the defendants as well as their family members, and were declared to be various items including electronic accessories, necklaces, gifts, toys and tools.

Customs and Border Protection officers discovered more than 35 flick knives, 12 pepper sprays, nine stun guns and several other prohibited items including knuckle dusters.

35 year old Mr Jamel Assoum, and his 26 year old brother Mr Mahamed Assoum, will also face further charges related to misdeclared postal packages that were intercepted by Customs and Border Protection officers between July and August 2010.

"People should check what is legal before attempting to import any weapons into Australia via the post or through the airport," Mr Woodford-Smith said.

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SOURCE: Customs and Border Protection