About 6:30am last Tuesday, officers attached to the Proactive Crime Team Port Stephens Hunter Police District, assisted by Federal Environmental Officers, attended a property on Nelson Bay Road, Williamtown, to execute a search warrant in relation to the exportation of native birds.

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Andrew Rankmore allegedly attempted to flee the property and was stopped and searched, with police allegedly locating and seizing a firearm.

“During a subsequent search of the property, officers allegedly located and seized 49 unregistered handguns, fourteen unregistered rifles/shotguns, ammunition, firearm parts, drugs, chemicals consistent with the manufacture of gunpowder, silver bullion and cash,” a NSW Police spokesperson said.

Mr Rankmore was taken to Raymond Terrace Police Station and charged with 96 offences, and will face court again in October.