Bail veto for man on guns charges

A CAIRNS man allegedly found with two homemade handguns in a backpack has been denied bail after a court heard he was convicted of another weapons offence just two months ago.

Andrew Wade Williams, 32, was arrested after he allegedly fled from a parked car which police officers approached on a Westcourt street early yesterday morning.

It is alleged he had been sitting in the back seat with a group of people about 2am.

He allegedly dropped his backpack and phone as he fled which was recovered by officers who allegedly found two improvised handguns, a flick knife and drug utensils inside.

He appeared in the Cairns Magistrates Court charged with one count each of unlawful possession of Category H weapons, unlawful possession of a Category M weapon, possession of tainted property, possession of a drug utensil, stealing and obstructing police.

Duty solicitor Steve Wettenhall told the court his client was expected to plead guilty to the weapons possession charges, but was contesting the possessing tainted property and stealing offences.

He argued he should be released on bail because he may not face jail if convicted.

But Magistrate Joe Pinder said due to the seriousness and strength of the case and his criminal history he would be staying in custody.

The case was until June 26. adjourned