Joint intelligence operation prevents almost $1million worth of illicit drugs from entering correctional facility
Intelligence-sharing and collaboration between Queensland Corrective Services (QCS) and the Queensland Police Service (QPS) has resulted in a 34-year-old Berrinba man charged with eight offences, after he allegedly attempted to smuggle drugs into Woodford Correctional Centre.
It's alleged the man surrendered himself to police and while in custody at the Richlands Watchhouse on Tuesday, 4 November, officers observed the man to be acting strangely.
Thanks to intelligence provided by QCS analysts, QPS officers were aware that the man may have illegal substances concealed on his person.
Following a search, it will be alleged a quantity of methylamphetamines, suboxone, cannabis and utensils were located with an estimated prison value of about $1 million. It is alleged the drugs were intended to be sold in a correctional centre.
The man has been charged with three counts each of supplying dangerous drugs within a correctional facility and possessing dangerous drugs and one count each of producing dangerous drugs and fail to take reasonable care and precautions in respects of syringe or needle.
He has been remanded in custody and is next expected to appear before the Richlands Magistrates Court on 17 December.
Chief Superintendent Stuart McHaffie, General Manager, Woodford Correctional Centre praised the collaboration between the centre's Intelligence Officers and the police.
"Our highly skilled Intelligence Officers are the unseen eyes and ears of the centre, and they work closely with colleagues including the Queensland Police Service to ensure those who attempt to bring in contraband will be caught," Chief Superintendent McHaffie said.
"This intercept is an example of our commitment to maintaining the safety and security of our centres, which includes a zero-tolerance approach to the introduction of drugs.
"Correctional centres are controlled environments for a reason and introducing illicit substances and prohibited items endangers the safety of officers, visitors and prisoners."
Inala Officer In Charge, Acting Senior Sergeant Ben Osbourne, thanked QCS officers for their vigilance and collaboration with QPS.
"The intelligence that QCS provided was concise and contributed to the immediate arrest of this man," Acting Senior Sergeant Osbourne said.
"This type of collaboration and intelligence sharing between agencies is helping us all restore safety to our communities."
