Authorities announced on Tuesday that the man now faces up to eight years in prison.
Police suspected the elderly resident of the Lipsko county in central Poland was using his apiary to conceal illegal weapons and conducted a search of his premises.
"One of the officers, who is passionate about beekeeping, brought along appropriate protective gear," said local police spokeswoman Monika Karasińska.
Upon entering the property, officers found that nearly the entire premises was filled with ammunition and firearms. Part of the arsenal was ingeniously hidden within the walls of empty beehives, only discovered after removing protective slats.
"During the initial inspection, several firearms—both live and pneumatic—were found. Additionally, 283 pieces of various types and calibers of ammunition were secured, all of which require permits," Karasińska stated.
Police also seized several pneumatic weapons showing signs of being modified to fire animal slaughter cartridges, as well as revolvers and gas weapons.
"An expert will issue an opinion during the ongoing proceedings to determine whether possession of these items was also prohibited or posed a danger," she added.
The 80-year-old man was taken into police custody and has been charged with possession of firearms and ammunition without the required permits. If convicted, he faces up to eight years in prison.
(jh)
Source: PAP