NSW Police have arrested 39 people and seized 230 illicit firearms during a statewide week of action targeting illegal weapons. The operation, formerly known as Operation Athena, ran from Monday 19 October to Sunday 25 October 2025. Police executed 12 warrants as part of a National Illicit Firearms Working Group effort involving police from multiple Australian jurisdictions, Federal agencies, and NZ Police. The NSW component was led by State Crime Command’s Drug and Firearms Squad, with hundreds of police and specialist officers, and assistance from the Australian Border Force (ABF). Investigators laid 111 charges, issued 21 Firearm Prohibition Orders (FPOs), completed 163 FPO compliance checks, and carried out 819 safe storage inspections. In total, NSW Police located and seized 230 illicit firearms, more than 1,000 rounds of ammunition, and 33 firearm parts. Officers also seized seven imitation firearms, one privately made or 3D-printed firearm, and 79 other prohibited weapons. Commander of the State Crime Command’s Drug and Firearms Squad, Detective Superintendent John Watson, said every illegal firearm removed is “one less weapon” that can threaten or seriously harm community members. ABF Investigations NSW Superintendent Shaun Baker said criminals can import firearm parts and components that can be assembled into functioning weapons, including privately manufactured and 3D-printed firearms. Police say they will continue working with partners across Australia and New Zealand to disrupt the illicit firearms market and prevent dangerous weapons from reaching the community.