Criminal Syndicate Smashed
Police have smashed an alleged criminal syndicate accused of trafficking drugs, peptides and firearms across Melbourne.
Detectives arrested eight people during sweeping dawn raids today, Thursday the 4th of June, after an extensive investigation into the alleged network.
Investigators allege the syndicate distributed cocaine, steroids, peptides and illegal tobacco throughout Melbourne’s suburbs. Meanwhile, police also uncovered a large cache of firearms during the operation.
Massive Raids Sweep Across Melbourne
Officers from the Eastern Region Crime Squad executed 12 simultaneous search warrants from 10am.
Police targeted homes, businesses and factories across Melbourne’s CBD, south-east and northern suburbs.
Police carried out search warrants in Berwick. Cranbourne West, Docklands, Ferny Creek, Rowville, Narre Warren North, Oakleigh, Officer, Pakenham and Tullamarine.
Authorities confirm specialist police units assisted during the coordinated operation.
The Eastern Region Crime Squad worked alongside the Special Operations Group, VIPER Taskforce, Dog Squad and Australian Federal Police.
Firearms And Peptides Seized
Police allege the criminal network trafficked large quantities of cocaine, peptides and steroids across Melbourne.
During the raids, officers seized almost two dozen firearms.
At a Narre Warren property, detectives allegedly located a significant quantity of peptides alongside nearly 20 firearms, including handguns.
Additionally, investigators seized evidence linked to illicit tobacco importing operations.
Eight people, including seven men and one woman, were arrested during the operation.
The group ranges in age from 23 to 58 years old.
Police expect the accused will face dozens of drug trafficking and firearms charges.
Police Warn Criminals They Will Be Caught
Eastern Region Crime Detective Inspector Mick Hanna warned organised criminals their lifestyles would eventually collapse.
He said police remained “a step ahead” of offenders attempting to avoid detection.
What’s more, Detective Inspector Hanna said illegal profits often lead offenders toward prison sentences and lasting criminal records.
Investigators continue examining evidence seized during the raids.
Police are urging anyone with information about drug or firearm trafficking to contact Crime Stoppers.
