WA Police Seize 135 Firearms in Sovereign Citizen Raids Following Officer Shootings

Western Australia police conducted a major statewide operation targeting individuals aligned with the sovereign citizen movement, resulting in the seizure of 135 firearms and the cancellation or suspension of 44 gun licenses. This crackdown was prompted by the fatal shooting of two police officers in Victoria by Dezi Freeman, a self-confessed sovereign citizen who remains at large. Sovereign citizens reject government laws and regulations, believing they do not apply to them, which authorities warn poses a significant threat to public safety. Commissioner Col Blanch emphasized that despite their beliefs, sovereign citizens are not above the law, and the operation aimed to reduce future risks to the community and law enforcement. The raids were informed by intelligence from responsible firearms owners and involved search warrants at 70 properties. Police Minister Reece Whitby supported the measures, stating that no one is above the law, including those who oppose the foundational laws of a free and democratic society.