Police arrested 20 people in an operation targeting drug activity and weapons in Northland's retail hub in October.
Preston police officers, with assistance from the Dog Squad and Transit officers, targeted drug and weapons offences to reduce crime and provide a visible police presence in the operation which ran on 20 and 29 October.
Passive Alert Detection (PAD) dogs were utilised during the operation to detect illicit drugs.
The operation resulted in:
- 20 arrests (15 for drug possession)
- Nine weapons seized, including an imitation firearm, a baton, knuckle dusters and knives
- 10 outstanding matters actioned
- Upwards of 50 people searched
Key arrests include:
- A 28-year-old Whittlesea man was arrested after police allegedly located weapons, cannabis and methylamphetamine.
He was charged with possess imitation firearm, possess prohibited weapon (x6), possess controlled weapon without lawful excuse and drug offences and remanded to appear at court at a later date.
- A 49-year-old Reservoir man was arrested after officers allegedly located knuckle dusters and cannabis.
He was charged with possess a drug of dependence and a prohibited weapon and bailed to appear at court at a later date.
- A 29-year-old Reservoir woman was arrested in relation to allegedly possessing a drug of dependence, along with several outstanding theft matters.
She was charged and bailed to appear at court at a later date.
Quotes attributable to Acting Sergeant Abdul-Rahman Masri from Transit North:
"The community deserve a safe environment whether shopping or working. By proactively targeting anti-social behaviour, we're helping prevent further crime and improving safety for retailers, staff and the wider community. We know illicit drug activity and weapons offences can have far-reaching impacts on the community, which is why we'll continue targeting those who choose to engage in it."
Want to help disrupt crime and hold offenders accountable? Put yourself forward and visit www.police.vic.gov.au/police-officer-careers for more information.
