Disturbing number of prohibited weapons found on holiday makers at Perth Airport in past year

A disturbing number of dangerous weapons — including a replica firearm and a large knife — were seized from passengers at Perth Airport in the past year. Exclusive statistics obtained by The Sunday Times reveal 40 prohibited weapons were found on holidaymakers in the 12 months since January 7 last year. An extendable baton, a large knife and two knuckle dusters were found in the airport’s domestic or international terminal precincts. An Australian Federal Police spokesman said pepper (OC) spray and a replica firearm had also been seized. People have since faced charges, infringements or official cautions. The seized items were destroyed. AFP Inspector Aden Jama said its aviation operation members used detection dogs during regular patrols through the domestic and international terminals. They worked closely with airport security to “ensure the safety of all travellers, visitors and employees,” Insp. Jama said. “The AFP takes a zero-tolerance approach to any member of the public who attempts to bring prohibited weapons into the airport precinct. “All prohibited weapons located by AFP officers and airport security teams are seized and destroyed. “Members of the public found to be in possession of any prohibited items within the airport precinct may be charged or issued with an infringement.” As part of law enforcement efforts at airports, AFP officers work closely with Australian Border Force. Last week, the AFP charged two Hungarian nationals over allegations they had tried to smuggle heroin through Perth Airport inside their bodies. ABF officers examined the pair’s bags at Perth Airport after they arrived from overseas. One of the accused complained his stomach was hurting before he requested to go to hospital. The AFP allege that each of the two men, both 33, had pellets inside their stomachs containing more than 300 grams of heroin when they flew into Perth on Sunday. The AFP has charged the men with one count each of importing a marketable quantity of a controlled drug, which carries a maximum penalty of 25 years in prison. If anybody sees suspicious activity at an airport — including violent behaviour or suspicious items — they are urged to contact the AFP’s aviation hotline on 131 237.