Darwin weapons theft update

The Northern Territory Police have announced they have arrested and charged a person in relation to the theft of weapons from a patrol boat which occurred on 30 November 2012 at HMAS Coonawarra.

Defence can confirm that this person is a serving Navy member.

The Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Ray Griggs AO CSC has made the following statement;

"As I have said on a number of occasions this is a very serious matter and Navy does not tolerate any form of criminal behaviour. I am pleased that we have seen further progress on this case following the early success of the NT Police when they arrested a man for possession of the weapons. Navy will continue to assist in any way possible with the investigation."

In accordance with normal Defence procedures administrative action has been initiated against the member.

Defence will not make any further comment on this matter as it is now before the court.