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A strange incident at a shopping center in Australia has led to serious criminal charges after police say a man approached teenagers with an unusual request — and was allegedly carrying a loaded weapon at the time.

According to police, 41-year-old Lukas Pilichowski approached teenagers at Highpoint Shopping Centre in Maribyrnong on Monday, asking them for urine samples. Authorities allege he intended to use the samples to help pass a workplace drug test.

Remember, this happened in Australia – so let’s hear it straight from the Aussie news reporters themselves:

What Police Found

Officers stopped and searched Pilichowski at the shopping center. During the search, police allege they discovered a loaded firearm hidden in his pants.

Following the arrest, authorities executed search warrants at his home in Maidstone, leading to additional evidence and charges.

Charges Filed

Pilichowski is now facing multiple serious charges, including:

  • Carrying and possessing a loaded firearm in a public place
  • Possessing ammunition without a license
  • Possessing a firearm as a prohibited person

In court, the charges were described as “very serious.”

Court Appearance

Pilichowski appeared in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court, where he did not apply for bail. He was remanded in custody and is scheduled to return to court on June 16.

The court also heard that Pilichowski is reportedly withdrawing from heroin and has been diagnosed with PTSD.

Ongoing Police Operation

The arrest was made as part of Victoria Police’s Operation Pulse, an initiative focused on reducing crime in shopping centers. Since launching in December, the operation has resulted in more than 1,500 charges, with a significant portion related to theft.

Next time he tries to take a pee, maybe don’t ask a teenager…or bring an illegal firearm.