More than 15 illegal firearms were seized during raids in far north Queensland just weeks after a gun factory was uncovered on the Gold Coast.
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Police searched seven residences between Gordonvale and Cairns and seized three semi-automatic rifles, three shotguns, eight centre fire rifles and five concealable handguns during a week-long investigation last week.
Detectives have alleged a number of firearms seized were stolen, with some dating back to thefts from more than two decades ago.
A baton, handcuffs, a bullet proof vest, taser, dangerous drugs, thousands of rounds of ammunition and precursor chemicals and glassware for clandestine laboratories were also uncovered during the raids.
Two men, aged 34 and 42, and a woman, 37, were charged with a number of offences including unlawful possession of weapons, possession of explosives and drug possession.
They are expected to appear in Cairns Magistrates Court within the next two months.
The discovery comes after police discovered a weapons factory on the Gold Coast in mid-November.
Far North Crime Group Detective Inspector Geoff Marsh said those involved were not in a gang but were known to each other.
"Our inquiries to date suggest they weren't being stored for any particular purpose, they were openly being marketed amongst loose associates for purchase," he said.
"We are not making any allegations that the firearms have been used for any illegal activity.
"The potential harm to the cause by persons who unlawfully possess firearms in the community is what we want to stamp out."