Four people will face court following ongoing investigations into a large-scale drug supply syndicate allegedly operating in the state’s north, NSW Police say.
Strike Force Trevalsa was formed in January 2018 by Richmond Police District Drug Unit, to investigate ongoing supply of large commercial quantities of illicit drugs on the north coast of New South Wales.
Following a lengthy investigation, police arrested a 26-year-old Byron Bay man in Chinderah, about 1.30pm yesterday (Tuesday 29 May 2018).
Police also conducted three search warrants at homes in Byron Bay, Lismore Heights and Bilinga (Queensland).
During the searches, police located 3.4kg of MDMA, 1.5kg of cannabis and a quantity of cocaine.
Three men, aged 22, 45 and 53, were arrested and taken to Byron Bay Police Station.
The 26-year-old man was charged with an outstanding warrant, supply prohibited drug large commercial quantity, supply prohibited drug (x10) and knowingly direct activities of a criminal group.
He was refused bail to appear at Tweed Heads Local Court today (Wednesday 30 May 2018).
The 22-year-old man was charged with supply prohibited drug large commercial quantity (x2), supply prohibited drug and participate in criminal group.
He was refused bail to appear at Lismore Local Court today (Wednesday 30 May 2018).
The 45-year-old man was charged with supply prohibited drug (x2), participate in criminal group and possess prohibited drug.
He was granted conditional bail to appear at Byron Bay Local Court on Thursday 21 June 2018.
The 53-year-old man was charged with supply prohibited drug, participate in criminal group, possess prohibited drug and possess or use a prohibited weapon without permission.
He was refused bail to appear at Byron Bay Local Court today (Wednesday 30 May 2018).
Richmond Police District Crime Manager, Detective Inspector Cameron Lindsay said investigators are pleased with the outcome of today’s arrests.
"With the seizure of seven kilograms of illicit drugs, and the arrest of four people, we know we have been able to reduce the availability of drugs in this area.," said Det Insp Lindsay.
"The drugs we have seized during this operation are highly addictive and destructive and it is imperative to our community to get these drugs off our streets.
"Keeping these drugs out of the hands of those who seek to profit and to keep our community safe, is our priority.
"We need the community to continue supporting the police by providing vital information and help to change the acceptance of drugs in our community," said Det Insp Lindsay.
Investigations are continuing and further charges are expected.
Police are urging anyone with information in relation to this incident to call Crime Stoppers.
