Detectives from the Caulfield Divisional Response Unit (DRU) have today disrupted a significant drug trafficking syndicate operating across Melbourne's south-east, with more than $280,000 worth of cocaine seized following a series of early morning raids.
Today's police activity followed a 12-month investigation by the Caulfield DRU into the alleged trafficking of large amounts of cocaine by a local organised crime group. Earlier today, the Caulfield DRU, Prahran DRU, Springvale DRU, Morwell DRU, and Southern Metropolitan Crime Team, with the assistance of the Clandestine Laboratory Squad, executed five search warrants at residential properties in Moorabbin, Hampton, Caulfield North, Yallourn North, and Clayton South.
Officers seized approximately 700 grams of what is alleged to be cocaine with an estimated street value of $280,000 and six grams of what is alleged to be methylamphetamine with an estimated street value of $2200.
Other items seized during the search warrants include:
Approximately 10 grams of what is alleged to be cannabis
An estimated $65,000 in cash
A pill press and other items connected to drug manufacturing
Two samurai swords
A 37-year-old male from Hampton was arrested and charged with the trafficking and possession of methylamphetamine and possession of the proceeds of crime. He was bailed to appear before the Moorabbin Court on 11 February 2022.
A 51-year-old female from Moorabbin was arrested and charged with the possession of cannabis. She was bailed to appear before the Moorabbin Magistrates Court on 11 February 2022.
A 54-year-old female from Moorabbin is currently in police custody and assisting police with their investigation.
A 55-year-old male from Moorabbin is currently in police custody and assisting police with their investigation.
Quotes attributed to Detective Senior Sergeant Shane Rix:
"Earlier today, we have disrupted and dismantled a significant local cocaine trafficking network that has been operating in Victoria over the past 12 months."
"My message to anyone considering engaging in drug trafficking is simple - we will arrest you and the consequences are very real,"
"Those arrested today are staring at up to fifteen years in prison and if you decide to take the risk chasing a quick dollar, you could easily meet the same fate."
"Police have absolutely zero tolerance for drug traffickers, as we know the serious harm illicit drugs cause within our community, such as drug driving, drug fuelled violence and crimes committed to support a drug dependence."
