Detectives from Operation Eclipse have charged a man as part of their investigation into the tasking of crimes via encrypted applications targeting Melbourne 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 on Friday, at a residential address in Fraser Rise, a business premises in Keilor Downs and a residential address in Port Melbourne.
Detectives seized quantities of what is believed to be methylamphetamine, cocaine and ecstasy.
A Porsche SUV alleged counterfeit notes and steroids, a dagger, OC spray, two extendable batons and a number of mobile phones were also seized during the searches.
A 19-year-old Fraser Rise man was arrested and has since been charged with traffick a commercial quantity of methylamphetamine, attempt to traffic a handgun and eight counts each of traffick methylamphetamine and commit indictable offence whilst on bail.
He was held over to appear before Melbourne Magistrates' Court today.
An 18-year-old from Caroline Springs was also arrested. He has been interviewed and released pending further investigations.
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.
