Police have arrested six people, including men from Spotswood and Hoppers Crossing, and seized two firearms and approximately $500,000 worth of illegal drugs, during raids conducted across Melbourne on May 27.
The arrests come as part of a major investigation into an alleged criminal syndicate responsible for trafficking drugs and firearms across Melbourne, regional Victoria and interstate.
Detectives with support from the Special Operations Group and Critical Incident Response Team, executed 13 warrants at residential properties and storage facilities in Footscray, Footscray West, Spotswood, Sunshine North, Balwyn, California Gully, Rowville, and Warburton.
Six people, including a 43 year-old Spotswood man, a 35 year-old Hoppers Crossing man, a 36 year-old Rowville man, a 40 year-old Doreen man and two men aged 34 years-old with no fixed address, were arrested and taken into custody to be interviewed by police.
During the raids, police also seized 2kg of illicit drugs, including significant amounts of methylamphetamine, GHB, cannabis and steroids as well as prescription medication and more than $150,000 cash.
Two firearms, firearm parts and ammunition and multiple alleged stolen vehicles were also found.
Eastern Region Crime Advisor Detective Inspector Luke Kirton said anyone trafficking firearms or drugs in Victoria should expect a knock on the door.
“We will track you down, and we will dismantle your operation,” Detective Inspector Kirton said.
“These firearms are not toys. They are deadly weapons, and in the wrong hands they are a serious threat to public safety. The fact we’ve taken multiple guns and a significant amount of drugs off the streets today is a huge win for community safety.”
Anyone with information about alleged drug or firearms trafficking is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
