A sailor was charged Friday over the alleged theft of a cache of weapons from an Australian navy vessel by a balaclava-clad intruder dressed in military clothing.
Northern Territory Police said the 26-year-old was a serving member of the patrol boat fleet based at HMAS Coonawarra in Darwin that was targeted.
A dozen semi-automatic pistols and two pump-action shotguns were taken during the night raid on the moored patrol boat on November 30, during which the officer on duty was allegedly assaulted and bound with cables ties.
“It will be alleged the man was responsible for assaulting the Defence Force member and the removal of the weapons from the vessel, before passing them on,” Northern Territory police Commander Richard Bryson said in a statement.
The 26-year-old has been charged with aggravated robbery and two counts of possessing a prohibited firearm. He was remanded in custody.
Another man was arrested earlier this month after police raided a Darwin city unit and recovered all of the weapons.
The dramatic incident prompted navy chief Vice Admiral Ray Griggs to order an investigation into security on all naval ships and bases.
Darwin is a vital navy port and the centre from which Australia conducts border control operations, with about 600 naval personnel in the area, many working at sea in border protection.
Sailor charged over weapons stolen from Australian navy
