Gold Coast Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) detectives have arrested a number of people today following investigations into the alleged source of a dangerous drug which caused a number of people to suffer serious side effects in October, including the death of a Victorian man, Queensland Police say.
Operation Oscar Bandola was successful in disrupting the distribution and sale of dangerous drugs.
On October 19, 2016, the Queensland Police Service and Crime and Corruption Commission (CCC) announced a joint investigation into this matter which would be supported by the use of CCC hearings.
With information obtained through these hearings, police continued investigations culminating in the execution of 17 search warrants on residences and properties throughout the Gold Coast yesterday and today. 22 people have being charged with 70 drug related offences, including offences of supplying, producing and possessing dangerous drugs, and other drug and firearm related matters.
Large quantities of MDMA, cocaine, methylamphetamines, and cannabis were seized during the raids.
Police also seized other items including stolen property, guns and money.
Detective Inspector Mark Thompson said the arrests will have a significant impact on the supply of dangerous drugs in the Surfers Paradise Entertainment Precinct particularly leading up to Schoolies which starts on the Gold Coast this weekend.
"Offenders alleged to have supplied drugs within the Safe Night Precinct have been placed on bail with strict conditions not to attend Surfers Paradise, particularly during Schoolies," Detective Inspector Thompson said.
"This operation has been an outstanding success and will have a significant impact on drug supply on the Gold Coast. The distribution of these drugs pose serious health risks affecting the lives of our children and members of the community and we will continue the fight to reducing the negative impacts of dangerous drugs on our community."
Investigations are continuing and more arrests are expected.
All those arrested will appear in the Southport Magistrates Court over the coming weeks.
