Detectives from Operation Eclipse have today arrested a man as part of their investigation into an offender believed to be tasking crimes via encrypted applications targeting Melbourne's licensed venues.
The investigation commenced in April of this year when police received intelligence in relation to drug and firearms trafficking linked to an offshore syndicate leader.
A search warrant was then executed at a Fraser Rise address and a number of mobile phones were seized.
Three search warrants were executed this morning at a residential address in Fraser Rise, a business premises in Keilor Downs and a residential address in Port Melbourne.
A 19-year-old Fraser Rise man has been taken into custody and will now be interviewed.
At least 250 grams of what is believed to be methylamphetamine, quantities of cocaine and ecstasy, a Porsche SUV, counterfeit $50 notes, steroids, a dagger, OC spray, two extendable batons and a number of mobile phones were seized during the searches.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Operation Eclipse was established in April to target the organised crime syndicate responsible for attacks on licensed venues in central Melbourne, as well against people associated to those businesses.
This operation has now expanded its focus to include other acts of violence directed by this syndicate. Violence, which has been undertaken to extort other business types and seek to control the illicit drug and tobacco markets.
The operation is led by specialist detectives including the Gang Crime Squad and Arson and Explosives Squad who continue to work closely with local police, in particular regional detectives who continue to respond to and investigate these incidents.
Police continue to have an increased presence in both an overt and covert capacity throughout these entertainment precincts, including increased patrols of these areas and visits to licensed premises.
Anyone with further information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
